GB chief calls for classification overhaul

The head of Britain’s Paralympic team has called for tighter control of classification classes amid claims of probable widespread cheating at the forthcoming Rio Games. Tim Hollingsworth spoke out as UK Athletics announced a review of classification procedures following complaints from Baroness Grey-Thompson, Britain’s best-known Paralympian, that some athletes are being allowed to compete against others who are significantly more impaired.

“People’s understanding of the classification system needs to be made more robust and more objective. Everyone in Paralympic sport recognises there is more we can do to evolve classification, in terms of understanding the decision-making,” said Hollingworth, Paralympics GB head de mission, ahead of Wednesday’s start of the Paralympics. “As the sport develops we may need tighter systems.”

Classification has always been a controversial issue which comes under the jurisdiction of the International Paralympic Committee. Competitors are grouped into categories according to the degree of disability, but Grey-Thompson is among those who have raised concerns.

“She’s aware of some athletes within the system who would like to see classification made more robust and transparent. She advocates that,” said Hollingsworth, adding that he had no particular concerns about classification. He said Grey-Thompson had not named specific athletes over whom she has concerns.

Britain has 262 athletes already reviewed and classified by the IPC for Rio and one athlete each from wheelchair rugby and cycling who will be reviewed in Brazil. The IPC can withdraw and review any athlete at any time in any sport if its classifiers see fit.

Rio’s challenge P8-9