WHEELCHAIR FENCING

 Wheelchair Fencing competition includes three events: foil, epee and sabre.

The object of the game is to effectively score 15 points against your opponent. 

The official governing body is the International Wheelchair Fencing Committee  (ISMWSF Section).

Wheelchair Fencing is an official sport of the Paralympic Games.

                        Athlete eligibility and classification

Athletes who use wheelchairs are eligible to compete in wheelchair fencing. 

There are three divisions of competition, with divisions based upon disability classification.

Playing area

In the able-bodied sport of fencing, two fencers compete on a 14 meters strip.  In wheelchair fencing, fencing is static.  The wheelchairs are fixed in place to the ground by metal frames.  The chair is preferably clamped to both sides of the frame to keep the chair from tipping.  The length of the playing area is decided by the fencer with the shortest arms.  This person decides if the distance will be at his distance or that of his opponent.  One arm/hand holds the fencing weapon.  The other arm is used to hold onto the chair when lunging and recovering.

Rules

The rules for wheelchair fencing include the fixed distance between fencers.  The target for foil and sabre competitions is exactly the same as able-bodied competition.  In epée competition, the target is everything above the waist, with an apron being worn below the waist to aid in cancellation of these touches.  Feet must remain on the footrest and the fencer must remain seated (no daylight between the fencer's buttocks and the seat of the chair).  The chair must be fixed at a 110 degree angle to the central bar.

The main object is the same as able-bodied competition.  The first fencer to score 15 points (direct elimination) or 5 points (preliminary pool play) against the opponent wins.  A point is awarded each time a fencer touches the opponent in the target area.  Direct elimination matches consist of three 3-minute periods.  Individual and team events are included in foil and epee for men and women.  Sabre events are limited to men.

Equipment

The wheelchair is a primary piece of equipment. It is fixed to a metal frame in the performing area to maintain stability.  The inside rear wheel should be covered by metal detachable shields.  The chair may be cushioned.  The cushion may be the same width as the wheelchair seat and have minimum height of 5 cm and a maximum height of 10 cm.

Fencers who have a significant loss of grip or control of the sword are allowed to attach the sword into the hand using a bandage or similar type of wrapping.  A glove may be worn and binding should cover sleeve opening.  Legs must also be well protected by extra thick clothes or an apron.  Athletes compete with the same equipment as able-bodied fencers.  Weapons include the foil, epee and sabre.