Evidence-based Classification in Track Athletics for Athletes with a Vision Impairment: A Delphi Study

Authors

Allen, Peter M. PhD, FAAO; Dolan, Rebecca MSc; Croxall, Helen PhD; Ravensbergen, Rianne H. J. C. PhD; Brooks, Ashley PhD; Zenk, Franziska MSc; Mann, David L. PhD

Evidence-based Classification in Track Athletics for Athletes with a Vision Impairment: A Delphi Study

publication date

June 28, 2020

Abstract/Introduction

SIGNIFICANCE

The Delphi analysis presented here highlights the need for a sport-specific evidence-based classification system for track athletics for athletes with a vision impairment (VI). This system may differ for different race distances. Further research is required to develop a useful test battery of vision tests for classification. The issue of intentional misrepresentation during classification needs particular attention.

PURPOSE

At present, athletes with VI are placed into competition classes developed on the basis of legal definitions of VI. The International Paralympic Committee Athlete Classification Code states that all sports should have their own classification system designed to reflect the (visual) demands of that individual sport. This project gathered expert opinion on the specific requirements for an evidence-based sport-specific classification system for VI track athletics and to identify any particular issues within track athletics that require further research into their impact on sport performance.

Conclusion/Results

METHODS

A three-round Delphi review was conducted with a panel of 17 people with expertise in VI track athletics.

RESULTS

The panel agreed that the current classification system in VI track athletics does not completely minimize the impact of impairment on competition outcome, highlighting the need for improvements. There was clear agreement that the existing measures of vision may fail to adequately reflect the type of vision loss that would impact running performance, with additional measures required. Intentional misrepresentation, where athletes “cheat” on classification tests, remains a serious concern.

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