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World Para Snowboard Rules and Regulations

 

For Snowboard Cross, Banked Slalom, Giant Slalom & Team Events

 

2017/2018 Season —valid until 1 October 201

 

World Para Snowboard

Adenauerallee 212-2 14

53113 Bonn, Germany

www.WorldParaSnowboard.org

 

Tel. ÷49 228 2097-200

Fax +49 228 2097-209

World ParaAlpineSkiing@paralympic.org

 

 

Contents

 

Lion 1: Regulations                                                                              5

 

300   Joint Regulations for World Para Snowboard                             5

 

301   VIPSB Competitions                                                                   5

 

302   World Cup (Level 1) and Continental Cup (Level 2)
Point System, Rankings arid Trophies                                       7

 

303   World Para Snowboard Calendar                                               8

 

304   World Para Snowboard Race Licence (WPSB Licence)             9

 

305   Race Licence Pre-requisites                                                     12

 

306   Competitor’s Obligations and Rights                                         13

 

307   Sponsorships and Advertising                                                   13

 

308   Display of Competition Equipment                                            13

 

309   Organisation of Competition                                                      14

 

310   Invitation/Programme                                                                14

 

311   Competition Administration and Fee Regulations

         (Athletes and Organising Committees)                                     15

 

312   Competition Entries                                                                   17

 

313   Team Captains Meetings                                                           18

 

314   Draw                                                                                          18

 

315   Start List/Publication of Results                                                 19

 

316   Competitor Medical Examinations and Compliance with
the IPC Anti-Doping Code                                                         19

 

317   Medical Services Required from Event Organisers                   20

 

318   Competition Equipment                                                             20

 

319   Equipment Controls                                                                   21

 

320   Gambling and Competitions                                                      21

 

321   Sanctions                                                                                   21

 

322   Procedural Guidelines                                                               23

 

323   Protests                                                                                     24

 

324   Place of Submission                                                                  24

 

325 Deadlines for Submission                                                            24

 

326   Form of Protests                                                                        25

 

327   Protest Fees                                                                              25

 

328   Authorisation                                                                             26

 

329   Settlement of Protests by the Jury                                            26

 

330   Appeals                                                                                     26

 

Section 2: Rules common to All Snowboard Disciplines                    29

 

1300 Race organisation and management                                        29

 

1301 the Jury                                                                                     35

 

1302 Roles of the Jury                                                                       36

 

1303 The Technical Delegate (TD) and his duties                             39

 

1304 Gate Judges                                                                              41

 

1305 Course setter                                                                             42

 

1306 Forerunners                                                                               43

 

1307 Start, finish, timing and calculations                                          43

 

1308 Start and finish officials                                                              44

 

1309 The Start                                                                                    44

 

1310 Course and competition                                                             46

 

1311 Competition                                                                                47

 

1312 The Finish                                                                                  47

 

1313 Award ceremony                                                                        48

 

1314 Starting order                                                                             48

 

1315 Start intervals                                                                             49

 

1316 Re—runs                                                                                   49

 

1317 Interruption or Termination of the run or training                       50

 

1318 Not permitted to start (NPS)                                                      51

 

1319 Disqualifications                                                                         51

 

1320 Competitions under artificial light                                               51

 

1321 Poles                                                                                          51

 

1322 Gate flags                                                                                  51

 

Section 6: Specific rules for WPSB Snowboard                                 52

 

1400 World Para Snowboard courses                                                52

 

1401 Technical data for Snowboard Cross                                         52

 

1402 Technical data for Banked Slalom (LEVEL 1 — 2)                    53

 

1403 Technical data for Giant Slalom                                                 54

 

1404 Course design. Course building and maintenance plan            55

 

1405 Course testing                                                                           55

 

1406 Gates and course setting                                                           56

 

1407 Inspection/Training                                                                    56

 

1408 Execution of Snowboard Cross (head to head event)               57

 

1409 Finals Snowboard Cross (head to head event)                         59

 

1410 Snowboard Cross (Head to I—lead events)                              61

 

1411 Final Ranking                                                                             61

 

1412 Execution of Snowboard Cross, Banked Slalom and
Giant Slalom (Time trail events)                                                62

 

1413 Race points calculation process                                                64

 

1414 Point scales                                                                               67

 

1415 WPSB Snowboard Cross Banked Slalom Giant
Slalom Time Trial Points calculation process                            74

 

GLOSSARY OF ACRONYMS                                                            75

 

Appendix 1                                                                                          76

 

Section 1: Regulations

 

300       Joint Regulations for World Para Snowboard

 

300.1     All competitions on the World Para Snowboard (WPSB) Calendar must be organized in accordance with iPC Handbook and World Para Snowboard Rules and Regulations.

 

300.2     Participation and Recognition of National Organisations Competitions listed on the World Para Snowboard Calendar are only open to properly licensed competitors entered by their National Paralympic Committees (NPC) or organisations with the delegated authorization of the nation’s NPC.

 

WPSB recognizes only one national organisation per nation to enter competitors in WPSB competitions. However, the NPC will maintain the exclusive right arid recognition to enter athletes from their nation in the Paralympic Winter Games and World Para Snowboard World Championships.

 

300.3     Sanctions / Penalties

 

Every legal sanction or penalty imposed on and published in respect of a competitor, official, coach or Federation will be recognised by WPSB and the NPC.

 

300.4     Technical Control

 

All competitions listed in the World Para Snowboard Calendar must be supervised by:

 

— Appointed World Para Snowboard Technical Delegate, and

—    For PWG, WCH and WC, an appointed IPC Snowboard Race Director.

 

300.5     Every legal sanction imposed and published in respect of a competitor, official or trainer will be recognised by WPSB, the NPC, and the authorized National Ski Federations (NSF) respectively.

 

301       WPSB Competitions

 

The following Snowboard competitions are sanctioned by WPSB and are subject to regulations regarding participation and/or qualification:

·               Paralympic Winter Games (PWG) Level I

·               WPSB World Championships (WCH) Level 1

·               WPSB World Cups (WC) Level 1

·               WPSB Continental Cups (COC) Level 2

—    WPSB European Cup (EC)

          WPSB North American Cup (NORAM)

—    WPSB South American Cup (SAC)

—    WPSB Asian Cup (AC)

          WPSB Southern Hemisphere Cup (SHC)

          WPSB National Championships (NC) Level 3

 

·               WPSB Races Level 3

·               WPSB Team event Level 3

·               WPSB Youth Races (YR) Level 3

 

A competition event may comprise one or several Snowboard disciplines. For example the World Para Snowboard World Cup Finals is an event, whereas the Snowboard cross is a discipline. Entries for an event will be determined by the WPSB points list at the closing date for each event, and these points will be used for the event.

 

301.1     Paralympic Winter Games (PWG), World Championships (WCH), World Cups (WC), Continental Cups (COC), National Championships (NC), WPSB Races (WPSB), WPSB Team Event

 

 
 


Disciplines

 

 

The disciplines that may be considered for WPSB events are as follows:

 

301.2     Competitions with Non-Members of WPSB

 

The WPSB STC can authorise one of its member NPCs or authorized NSF to invite a non-member organisation (military, masters, etc.) to competitions, or accept invitations from such an organisation.

 

301.3     WPSB Events

 

An event is a competition in Snowboard or in one of its disciplines. It results in a ranking and gives rise to the award of medals and/or trophies

 

302         World Cup (Level 1) and Continental Cup (Level 2) Point System, Rankings and Trophies

 

In order to have trophies awarded the following criteria must be met. World Cup (Level 1) requires events in at least two (2) different continents and at least two (2) different disciplines. Continental Cup (Level 2) requires events in at least two (2) different countries and at least two (2) different disciplines and a minimum of 6 races for overall trophy. A minimum of 4 races in a discipline are required in a competition calendar season to be eligible for the trophy in that discipline.

 

302.1      Cup Point System

 

Point system is apply to World Para Snowboard (see art. 1414)

 

302.2     Several Competitors Tied for the Same Position

 

If several racers are tied for one of the top thirty positions in a race, each of the competitors who are tied receives the points corresponding to that position. The remaining competitors receive the points corresponding to their official classification in the race.

 

302.3     World Cup (Level 1), Continental Cup (Level 2) Individual/Overall Results

 

To calculate the individual rankings, all points in each discipline from the competition season are added.

 

To calculate the overall rankings, all points in all disciplines from the competition season are added together.

 

In the event of a tie for the top three places, then the athlete with the most first place finishes will break the tie. If there is still a tie, then the athlete with the most second place finishes, followed by third place finishes and so on will break the ties.

 

302, 4    World Cup (Level 1), Continental Cup (Level 2) Nations Ranking

To calculate the nations ranking, all points from the competition season’s individual standings of each nation will be added.

In the case of a tie the nation with the least number of participants in that Cup will break the tie.

 

302.5     World Cup and Continental Cup Trophies

 

A World Cup trophy for the winner and medals for the top three (3) ranked athletes will be awarded In each category/discipline and the individual overall ranking competition.

 

The winners of the individual disciplines receive small World Cup trophies while the overall classification winners will receive large World Cup trophies.

 

A Continental Cup trophy for the winner and medals for the top three (3) ranked athletes will be awarded for each category in the overall ranking competition.

The Nations trophy will be awarded top ranked nation.

 

303       World Para Snowboard Calendar

 

The competition year begins on 1 July and ends on 30 June the following year.

 

303.1     Bidding and Announcement

 

303.1.1  Any National Paralympic Committee or authorised organisation is entitled to bid to organise the World Para Snowboard World Championships in accordance with the WPSB Bid Application Process for World Championships.

 

303.1.2  Any National Paralympic Committee or authorised organisation is entitled to present a Host Expression of Interest for any WPSB race (Levels WC,-COC, NC, WPSB, Tea Event.

 

Upon receipt of the application and approval by World Para Snowboard the races will be included in the draft WPSB calendar, httos:’íwww. Daralvm pic.or2JSnowboard!calendar-results.The races will not be confirmed until World Para Snowboard has received the signed agreement between the parties.

 

The organizer must send the event information to their National Paralympic Committee and the National Ski Association. The NSF must liaise with FIS secretary in order to obtain necessary Codex for the races.

 

303.1.3  Appointment of Race Organiser

 

In the event that the National Paralympic Committee or the National Ski Federation appoints a race organiser, such as an affiliated ski club, it shall do so using the form “Sanctioning Application” or by means of a similar written agreement. An application by a NPC or NSF for inclusion of an event on the WPSB Calendar shall mean that the necessary agreement to organise the event has been established.

 

303.1.4  Organisation of Races in other Countries

Competitions that are organised by other National Paralympic Committees or National Ski Associations may only be included in the WPSB Calendar when the NPC or NSF of the country concerned where the competitions will be organised provides its approval.

The approval must be sent to World Para Snowboard.

 

303.1.5  In order to achieve a fixed competition calendar at least two years in advance, the following preferred dates for receipt of Host Expression of Interest apply.

 

The Interest Forms can be downloaded from:

 

httDs:ujwww. a ralyrnøic .orgsnowBoa rd/downloads/race-documents

 

And must be sent to: WorldParaAlpineSkiingparalympic.org World Para Snowboard calendar is published on the website;

 

httDs://www. DaralymQic.or2/Snowboard/calendar-results

It will be periodically be updated to reflect changes.

Official sanctioned WPSB races must be published on the FIS calendar under the PARA category.

 

303.1.6  World Para Snowboard must approve the courses where the competition will take the place as well in cases of force majeure new valid course.

 

303.1.7  In the case of a postponement/cancellation of a listed race from the WPSB calendar, the organizer or hosting NPC or authorised NSF must inform World Para Snowboard immediately and a new invitation or notification must be released on the WPSB website.

 

303.1.8  An organizer and its NPC failing to comply with the requirements set in the Sanctioning Application and/or formal Contract or Agreement is subject to sanctions by World Para Snowboard.

 

304       World Para Snowboard Race Licence (WPSB Licence)

 

A licence to participate in WPSB races is issued by an NPC to competitors who fulfil the criteria for participation through registering the competitor with WPSB in the respective discipline(s).

 

304.1     The WPSB licence year begins on July 1st and finishes on June 30th of the following year.

 

304.2     All athletes and guides competing in WPSB races are required to have a valid WPSB Licence.

 

All athletes competing at WPSB events must comply with age criteria. Age is defined by birth year, eg.1998.

 

Athletes’ registration and licensing must be done through the SDMS on-line system

 

Error! Hyperlink reference not valid. httn://www.oaralympic.orpfsdms.The registration requires the upload of the signed IPC Athlete Eligibility Agreement.

 

The new license will be valid after a maximum ten days (10) once the payment is confirmed. Each NPC or authorised NSF has to purchase the licence for athlete on a seasonal basis. The licence must be purchased ten (10) days prior to the first Team Captains Meeting of the Para Snowboard event the athlete competes in.

 

Each athlete must pay a 60€ fee. When paying after the October 1’ of the competition year the fee will be 90

 

New athletes and guides, who have never held a WPSB Licence, are allowed to purchase a WPSB licence by paying a 60 € fee at any time during their first season

 

The IPC Governing Board will review the licence fees every 2 years.

 

Once the WPSB Licence Fee has been paid, the competitor will be included in the next WPSB Rankings Points list.

 

304.2.1  National Championship provisional licence (WPSB NCP Licence) Athletes competing in National Championships event (level 3) who do not hold a current WPSB Licence need to purchase WPSB NCP Licence to be included in an WPSB draw.

 

NCP license registration must be done through the SDMS on-line system

http;/fwww. paralymDic.orgJsdms.

 

The cost of the NCP license is 20 €. Holders of NCP license are allowed to start in all National Championships competitions. They are not eligible to compete in any other WPSB sanctioned event.

 

The results achieved with this licence will not be included in the WPSB points list. The athlete can upgrade to a full WPSB Licence until the beginning of the following season (1 July) in order to have their results included in the WPSB Points List.

 

An NCP licence allows competitors into Banked Slalom and Giant Slalom events only.

 

304.2.2  Youth License (WPSB YL License)

 

Youth athletes from 10 to 17 years old can compete in NC races and Youth Competitions.

License fee is 20€

 

304.3     The WPSB STC reserves the right in its absolute discretion, to grant or to decline to grant, a change of licence notwithstanding the fulfilment of the aforementioned conditions where it deems it is contrary to the spirit of the rule and in the best interests of WPSB to do so (e.g. to decline to grant a change of licence if a member NPC tries to “importa a competitor).

 

304.4     In the event that a competitor does not fulfil all the criteria required to apply for a change of NPC licence registration, the onus shall be on the competitor to demonstrate In writing to the satisfaction of WPSB that exceptional circumstances exist and it Is in the best interests of WPSB to grant the change.

 

304.4.1  A competitor will retain their WPSB points if they change their NPC under the condition that the former NPC granted the release of the competitor.

 

304.4.2  In the event that any of the documents for an application to change licence registration submitted by the NPC (letter of release from the former NPC, passport, residency papers) are found to be false, WPSB will sanction the competitor and the new NPC.

 

304.5     To compete at WPSB Events,

 

An athlete must be WPSB classified. Until an athlete has been WPSB classified, he/she will be designated N status (New), and can only compete In:

 

World Para Snowboard competitions levels: 2, 3.

 

An athlete with N Status must compete in the highest class of his/her category

An “N” status athlete has one (1) year to obtain the WPSB international classification from the first race he compeles. Results achieved throughout that period will not be recalculated.

 

304.6     By signing the IPC Athlete Eligibility Agreement, the athlete confirms possession of valid liability insurance for WPSB events and assumes full responsibility, through his/her National Paralympic Committee.

 

304.7     The WPSB Licence will only be issued to athletes who meet the requirements of the IPC Athlete Nationality Code.

 

304.8     The WPSB Licence will only be issued to athletes who meet the requirements of the World Para Snowboard minimum age limit requirements as follows.

304.9     In order to be eligible to compete in WPSB Competitions, the competitors must comply with the regulations of section 304 and the following admitted years of birth:

WPSB Competition Year 17/18        18/19       19/20       20/21

 

Minimum Age(Levelland2) 2004             2005        2006        2007

 

Minimum Age (Level 1)2003   2004        2005        2006

 

304.10   Youth competitors 13 to 17 may compete at a NC event if they have either an WPSB or NCP licence. These competitors will be expected to follow NC race entry requirements, as outlined in 311.2.

 

304.11   An athlete whose licence has been suspended may have a new licence issued only after World Para Snowboard has verified that any sanctions imposed have been fulfilled.

 

304, 12  Application for a change of WPSB Licence Registration.

Refer to the IPC Handbook Athlete Nationality Policy

 

htto:I/www. oarplvmDic.orp’sitesjdefault.filesjdocument!l 20203163705284 sec i i chanter 3 1 ipc policy on the nationality of competitors gb approved.pdf.

 

304.13   Sex of the Competitor

 

304.13.1 Subject to article 304.13.3 below, an athlete shall be eligible to compete in men’s competition if he iS:

 

          Recognised as a male in law; and

          Eligible to compete under these WPSB Rules and Regulations.

 

304.13.2 Subject to article 304.13.3 below, an athlete shall be eligible to compete in women’s competition f she is:

 

          Recognised as a female in law; and

          Eligible to compete under these WPSB Rules and Regulations.

 

304.13.3 WPSB will deal with any cases involving transgender athletes in accordance with the International Olympic Committee’s (lOC) transgender guidelines (as amended by the lOC from time to time) and any applicable IPC and WPSB regulations.

 

304.13.4 The eligibility of persons recognised as third gender in law will be determined by the IPC on a case-by-case basis, in accordance with any applicable WPSB regulations.

 

305        Race Licence Pre-requisites

WPSB shall not issue a licence to any athlete who:

 

305.1     Has conducted his or herself in a manner that violates the principles of Fair Play;

 

305.2     Accepts or has accepted, directly or indirectly, any money / payments for their participation at competitions, not otherwise approved by the NPC I NSF of the competitor/guide, or provided by the competition organising committee in accordance with the host agreement with WPSB.

305.3     Has not signed the IPC Athlete Eligibility Agreement;

 

305.4     Does not meet the conditions outlined in the IPC Nationality Code or age limit requirement outlined in regulation 304.9 and 304.10,

 

305.5     Is under suspension.

305.6     With the issuance of a licence and race entry the National Paralympic Committee assumes full responsibility and confirms that valid insurance (as per regulation 304.3) for training and competition is in place for all its athletes.

 

306        Competitor’s Obligations and Rights

 

306.1     Athletes must comply with the IPC Handbook, the World Para Snowboard Rule and Regulation Book and must comply with the instructions of the Jury.

 

306.2     Competitors are not permitted to compete while under the influence of any substances or methods prohibited by the IPC Anti-Doping Code.

 

306.3     Competitors who do riot attend the award ceremonies without prior notification lose their claim to any prize granted including money prizes.

 

306.4     Competitors must behave in an appropriate and sportsmanlike manner towards members of the Organising Committee, officials and the public.

 

306.5     Competitors are prohibited from betting on the outcome of competitions in which they are participating.

307       Sponsorships and Advertising

 

307.1     Teams may enter into contracts with a commercial firm or organisation for financial sponsorship and or the supply of goods or equipment.

 

Paralympic Winter Games and World Championships have specific regulations that all NPCs must comply with.

 

307.2     Competitors are forbidden to display any advertising of brands related to tobacco, alcohol products or drugs (narcotics).

 

308       Display of Competition Equipment

 

308.1     Competitors are not permitted to take off Snowboard before crossing the red/blue line in the finish area, as defined by the organiser.

 

308.2     A competitor is not allowed to take equipment (Snowboard, boots, helmet, goggles) to the official ceremonies that have anthems and/or flag raising for Level 1 events (PWGIWCH/WC). Holding or carrying equipment on the victory podium after conclusion of the whole ceremony for press photos, pictures, etc. is permitted.

 

309       Organisation of Competition

 

309.1     The Organiser

 

309.1.1  The organiser of an WPSB competition is the person or group of people who make the necessary preparations and directly carry out the running of the competition in the resort.

 

309.1.2  The organiser must ensure that accredited persons accept the regulations regarding the competition rules and Jury decisions.

 

309.2     The Organising Committee

 

The Organising Committee of an World Para Snowboard competition consists of those members (physical or legal) who are designated by the contracted party supplying the race service and approved by WPSB. It carries the rights, duties and obligations of the organiser.

309.3     Liability Insurance

309.3.1 The organizer must sign into a liability and accident insurance for all staff (WPSB and IPC Personnel included), including volunteers, all other accredited staff/officials and athletes and visitors to protect the LOC against any claim related to the activities of the Organising Committee. WPSB and IPC will additionally cover its employees and appointed officials, who are not members of the Organising Committee (e.g. TD, administrator personnel, medical supervisor, etc.), with liability insurance when they are acting on behalf of WPSB. Despite this coverage during the event, WPSB and IPC staff is considered part of the L staff and the insurance coverage only will apply if the LOC insurance will decline a potential claim.

 

309.3.2  Before the first training day or competition, the organiser must be in possession of a binder or cover notes issued by a recognised insurance company and present jito the Technical Delegate. The Organising Committee requires liability insurance with coverage of at least €700,000; whereby it is recommended that this sum is at least €2 million. Additionally, the policy must explicitly include liability insurance claims by any accredited participant, including athletes, against any other participant including but not limited to officials, course workers, coaches, etc.

 

310        Invitation/Programme

 

The lnvitation/Programme (according to the standard template provided by WPSB) must be approved and published by WPSB, and must include:

 

310.1     Name, date and place of the competitions, together with information on the competition sites and the best ways of reaching them,

 

310.2 Technical data on the individual competitions and conditions for participation,

 

310.3     Names of principal officials with contact details (phone/email)

 

310.4     Time and place for the first team captains meeting and the draw,

 

310.5     Timetable for the beginning of the official training and the start times,

 

310.6     Location of the official notice Board,

 

310.7     Time and place for the prize giving,

 

310.8     Final date of entry and address for entries, including telephone, fax and e-mail address.

 

310.9     Download draft invitation from

 

httDs://www. pa ralym cic. org/snowBoa rd/downloads/race-documents

 

310.10   If the use of POV cameras has been approved by the Jury this must be included in the programme.

 

311       Competition Administration and Fee Regulations (Athletes and Organising Committees)

 

World Para Snowboard recommends the organiser invoice up to 30% of the total participation fee for payment one month prior to the event’s opening date. Failure to pay this amount by the deadline will result in cancellation of the non-paying team’s registration.

The LOC is responsible for complying with the aforementioned clause.

 

311.1     Standard services for LOC accommodation

 

If the LOC provides accommodation the standard services must comprise the following:

 

·               Double room with bath in a minimum of three star hotel style accommodations (half Board).

·               A number of wheelchair accessible rooms, calculated at a minimum of 15% of the total number of entries

·               Waxing rooms:

 

The organizer must make available a wheelchair accessible heated room/space with enough space for a wheelchair to turn and manoeuvre and for storing equipment. The waxing rooms must be sufficiently ventilated. These rooms should have a minimum height of 2.4 metres, and for total area provided, 2 square metres (2m2) per athlete.

 

The LOC is responsible for complying with this clause.

 

311. 2    Race Entry Fee (Athletes)

 

The race entry fee is the amount that must be paid per athlete to the LOC for each race, including the official Snowboard training day, specified on the programme.

 

The race entry fee is non-refundable provided the Jury cancels the race.

 

 

 

311.3     Competition sanction fee (Organizing Committee)

 

An Organising Committee must pay all competition sanction fees to World Para Snowboard according to the terms and conditions of the contract/agreement.

These competition sanction tees are non-refundable.
The fees for each type of race are as follows:

 

 

 

The official Snowboard training runs will be invoiced accordingly to the competition level.

 

312       Competition Entries

312.1     Each NPC/NSF must comply with the online entries and accommodation entry according to the dates published on the corresponding competition invitation.

 

312.2     At the request of the LOC, the WPSB Race Administrator together with the WPSB Race Director may cancel a competitor’s entry in a race/event if at the second team captains’ meeting his/her delegation has not covered the full costs of that competitor’s participation.

 

312.3     WPSB management will send to the LOC or race administrator two days prior to the competition the official document with the race entries.

Special entry timelines and procedures shall apply for the Paralympic Winter Games and World Championships.

 

312.4     National Paralympics Committees and authorised National Ski Federations are not permitted to enter the same competitors in more than one competition on the same date. A monetary sanction will be applied to the N PC/NSF.

312.5     All competitors, trainers and team officials participating in WPSB events must carry accident insurance, in sufficient amounts to cover accident, transport and rescue costs including race risks, as well as third party liability insurance. The NPC/NSF is responsible for adequate insurance coverage (including medical insurance if this is not otherwise covered) of all the competitors they license and enter into a WPSB race or event.

 

312.6     The NPCINSF trainers and team officials must be able to show proof of the respective insurance coverage at any time on request of WPSB, one of its representatives or the organizing committee.

 

312.7     Only National Paralympic Committees and/or authorised National Ski Federations are entitled to submit entries for WPSB Races. Athlete race registration must be done through the WPSB on-line entry system httD:/fwww. a ralympic.orRJentrles

 

312.8     The LOC and WPSB may reject any entry/entries that do not comply with WPSB Rules and Regulations

312.9    ace Entries Deadlines

 

WC/EC/NORAM

 

·               Entries by number open 12 weeks prior to the event

·               Entries by number close 6 weeks prior to the event

·               Entries by name open 5 weeks prior to the event

·               Entries by name closed 1 week prior to the event

·               . Wild card open 2 weeks prior to the event

·               Wild card close 1 week prior to the event

 

WPSB/NC

 

·               Entries by name open 3 weeks prior to the event

·               Entries by name close I week prior to the event

 

For WCH and PWG entries are based on the respective qualification criteria. Entries for the event will be determined by the WPSB points list at the closing date for each event, and these points will be used for the event.

 

312.10   Wax Cabins

 

Wax cabins must be provided. The minimum measurements of wax cabins for 1-2 athletes is 18m2, 36m2 for 3-5 athletes and 6m2 per athlete for more than 5 athletes.

 

313       Team Captains Meetings

313.1     The time and location of the first team captains meeting and of the draw must be published in the invitation/programme. The invitations for all other meetings have to be announced to the team captains at their first meeting.

 

313.2     Two representatives of each participating nation may attend the TCMs. If an athlete(s) is not represented by a team captain he/she may represent him/herself at the TC meeting.

 

313.3     Representation by a substitute from another nation during discussions/voting at team captains meetings is not allowed.

 

313.4      Team captains and coaches must comply with the WPSB Rules and Regulations, the decisions of the Jury and respect the iPC Code of Ethics.

http:/!www. aralymDic.orgJsites/defaultlfiles/docurnent/13O62 5114507663 IPC + Codeo[ Ethics. ,df

 

314              Draw

 

314.1     Competitors’ starting order for each event and each discipline is decided by random draw or WPSB points order and WPSB points order.

 

314.2     If a competitor is not represented at the draw by a team captain or trainer (or by themselves in the event there is no team captain or trainer), they will only be drawn if their participation is confirmed by telephone, e-mail or faxto the LOC by the beginning of the team captains meeting.

 

314.3     The TD in his report must name the drawn competitors not present during the competition, indicating if possible the reasons for absence.

 

314.4     If a competition has to be postponed by at least one day, the draw must be done again.

 

315       Start List/Publication of Results

 

315.1     For all WPSB races, the LOC must provide the means to enable start lists and results distribution from the venue results room to the start area and for all gatekeepers/gate judges.

In the venue timing/results room, access to internet (at least DSL speed) and printer/photocopier (and its drivers) is required for World Cup, World Championships and Paralympic Games.

315.2     The start lists and results will be distributed on paper to all teams, officials, race office, sports presentation, protocol responsible persons and media.

 

315.3     Unofficial Times

Unofficial times should be posted on a scoreBoard, which should be readily visible from the area provided for the competitors who have finished, and from the press area. Whenever possible, unofficial times should be announced to the public over loudspeakers.

 

315.4     Announcement of Disqualifications

 

After completion of the race disqualifications must be published on the official notice Board and also at the finish. The time limit for protest is counted from the moment of this announcement.

 

316       Competitor Medical Examinations and Compliance with the IPC Anti-Doping Code

316.1     The National Paralympic Committee and the authorised organisations are responsible for the fitness of their competitors to race. All competitors are required to undergo a thorough evaluation of their medical health. This evaluation is to be conducted within the competitor’s own nation.

316.2     All Competitors, Guides and each Athlete Support Personnel who participate in any of the Events or Competitions as coach, trainer, manager, Team staff, official, medical or paramedical personnel must comply with and are subject to the rules and regulations outlined in the IPC Anti-Doping Code (the “Code”) as a condition of their membership, accreditation and/or participation in the sport. The IPC Anti-Doping Code can be found in the IPC Handbook Section 2, Chapter 1.2: httD://www.Daralympic.orithe i Dc/handbook .Any conflict between the Code and these rules will be resolved in favour of the Code.

 

317       Medical Services Required from Event Organisers

 

The health and safety of all those involved in a WPSB competition is a primary responsibility of all event organisers. This includes the competitors as well as race officials, volunteers, course workers and spectators. The specific composition of the medical support system is dependent on several variables:

 

          The size and level of the event being held (World Championships, World Cup, Continental Cup, NC, WPSB level, etc.)

          The estimated number of competitors, support staff and spectators

          The scope of responsibility for the Event Medical Organisation (competitors, support staff, spectators) should also be determined.

 

The Organiser/The Chief of Medical and Rescue Services must confirm with the Race Director and the Technical Delegate that the required rescue facilities are in place before starting the official training or competition. In the event of an incident, all services must be in place before restarting the official training or competition. Refer to the IPC Handbook, Medical Code.

 

http://www.paralympic.org/sites/default/files/document/12013 1082554885ipc+medical+codefinal.pdt

 

318       Competition Equipment

 

A competitor may only take part in a competition on the World Para Snowboard Calendar with equipment that complies with the WPSB Equipment Rule Book. In addition refer to the IPC Handbook, Sport Equipment Policy

 

httD:/’www. pa ralympjc.org]sites/ciefaultfilesjdocument/120203 164107739 sec iichapter 3.10 ic sport eauiDment DOliCv.Ddf

 

318.1     A competitor is responsible for the competition equipment and adaptive equipment they use. It is each competitor’s responsibility to check that the equipment they use conforms to the specifications and general safety requirements and is in working order.

 

318.2     The term ‘’Competition Equipment” encompasses all manufactured equipment that is specified in the WPSB Equipment Rule Book.

 

318.3     The term “Adaptive Equipment” refers to all the implements and apparatus adapted to the special needs of Paralympic athletes and used by athletes during competition on the field of play (e.g. sit-ski, protections, prostheses and orthoses) that is specified in the World Para Snowboard Equipment Rule Book.

 

318.4     World Para Snowboard must approve the new adaptive equipment The new adaptive equipment must be submitted in writing with supporting technical documentation and photographs with the approval form to be downloaded from httDs://www. aralymic.org/Snowboard/downIoads/epuiiment.

 

The new adaptive equipment must be sent to the World Para Snowboard for approval one month prior to be used in a competition

(WorldParaAlDineSkiinR a ralymoic.org),

 

The new adaptive equipment to be used in PWG and WCH must be submitted by September 30 prior to the competition season in which equipment is going to be used.

 

318.5     World Para Snowboard does not take any responsibility for the approval of new technical developments, which at the time of introduction may contain unknown dangers to the health or cause an increase in the risk of accidents.

 

318.6     Advertising on Competition Equipment

The advertising on equipment that is used during IPC Paralympic Winter Games and World Championships must conform to the IPC Manufacturing and Trademark Guidelines. Please refer to Manufacturing and Trademark Guidelines for PWG and WCH.

 

318.7     Obscene names and/or symbols on clothing and equipment are forbidden.

 

319       Equipment Controls

 

319.1     World Para Snowboard has full authority to control equipment. An official designated Equipment Controller will carry out equipment controls. Should there be a violation of equipment regulations the Jury will determine the appropriate sanction.

 

319.2     In the absence of equipment controllers, equipment issues are to be dealt with by the Jury and Race Director when present at an event,

 

320       Gambling and Competitions

Competitors, coaches, team officials and technical officials are prohibited from betting on the outcome of competitions in which they are involved.

 

321       Sanctions

 

321.1     General Conditions

 

321.1.2  An offence for which a sanction may apply and a penalty be imposed is defined as conduct that:

 

          Is in violation or nonobservance of these WPSB Rules and Regulations;

          Constitutes non-compliance with directives of the Race Director, Jury or individual members of the Jury; and/or

          Constitutes unsportsmanlike behaviour.

 

The following conduct shall also be considered an offence:

 

          Attempting to commit an offence;

          Causing or facilitating others to commit an offence; and/or

          Counselling others to commit an offence.

 

321.1.3  In determining whether conduct constitutes an offence consideration should be given to:

 

          Whether the conduct was intentional or unintentional; andlor

 

          Whether the conduct arose from circumstances of an emergency.

321.1.4  All NPCs or approved NSFs, shall accept and acknowledge these rules and sanctions imposed, subject only to the right to appeal pursuant to these WPSB Rule and Regulations and any relevant provision in the IPC Handbook.

 

321.2     Applicability

 

321.2.1  These sanctions apply to:

 

          All persons who are accredited by the WPSB or the organiser for an event published in the WPSB calendar (an event) both within and outside the confines of the competition area and any location connected with the competition; and

          All persons who are not accredited, within the confines of the competition area; and

          The group (trade team, team, national federation, etc.) to which the offender belongs and to its other members.

 

321.3     Penalties

 

321.3.1  The commission of an offence may subject a person or athlete/guide to the following penalties:

 

          Reprimand - written or verbal

          Withdrawal of accreditation

 

Denial of accreditation

 

          Monetary fine not less than 80€

          Disqualification

          Impairment of their starting position

          Forfeiture of prizes and benefits in favour of the organiser

          Suspension from IPC events

 

321.3.2  All IPC members or approved NSFs are liable to WPSB for the payment of any fines and incurred administrative expenses imposed on persons whose registration they arranged.

 

321.3.3  Payment of fines is due to WPSB within 8 (eight) days following their imposition.

 

32 1.3.4 A competitor shall only be disqualified if his mistake would result in an advantage for him with regard to the end result, unless the rules state otherwise in an individual case.

 

321.3.5  A Jury has the authority to impose penalties including monetary fines for field of play breaches of these WPSB Rules and Regulations. The Jury may not impose a monetary fine of more than 500 €.

 

32 1.3.6 WPSB has the authority to impose penalties for outside the field of play breaches of these WPSB Regulations and Rules including monetary fines.

 

321.4     The following Penalty decisions may be given verbally:

 

          Reprimands (provided they are recorded in writing)

          The withdrawal of accreditation for the current event from persons who had not been registered with the organiser through their NPCs or NSFs (provided the reasons for such withdrawal are subsequently provided in writing)

 

321.5     The following Penalty decisions shall be in writing:

 

          Monetary fines

          Disqualification

          Impaired starting position

          Competition suspensions

          Withdrawal of accreditation from persons who had been registered through their NPCs and NSFs Withdrawal of accreditation of WPSB/IPC accredited persons

          Forfeiture of prizes and benefits in favour of the organizer

 

321.6     Written penalty decisions must be sent by the WPSB TD or RD to: the WPSB email WorldParaAlDineSkiingaralvmpic.org. to the offender, and (if applicable) to the offender’s NPC and/or the NSF.

 

321.7     Any sanction involving disqualification shall be recorded in the referee’s and/or the TD’s report.

 

321.8     All penalties shall be recorded in the TD’s report.

 

322       Procedural Guidelines

 

322.1     Competence of Jury

 

The Jury at the event has the right to impose sanctions according to the above rules by majority vote. In the case of a tie, the chair of the Jury has the deciding vote.

 

322.2     All written Penalty decisions shall include:

 

322.3     The offence alleged to have been committed

 

322.4     The evidence of the offence

 

322.5     The rule(s) or Jury directives that have been violated

 

322.6     The penalty imposed

 

322.7     The penalty shall be appropriate to the offence. The scope of any penalty imposed by the Jury must consider any mitigating and aggravating circumstances.

 

322.8     Remedies

 

322.8.1  A penalty decision of the Jury may be appealed in accordance with the provisions in these WPSB Rules and Regulations.

 

322.8.2  If an appeal is not filed within the deadline established in these WPSB Rules and Regulations, the penalty decision of the Jury becomes final.

 

322.9     Benefit Fund

All monetary fines will be paid to the WPSB account for the development of the sport.

 

323       Protests

 

Types of Protests

 

323.1     Against admittance of competitors or their competition equipment,

 

323.2     Against the course or its condition,

 

323.3     Against a competitor or against an official during the race,

 

323.4     Against disqualifications,

 

323.5     Against timekeeping,

 

323.6     Against instructions or decisions of the Jury.

 

324       Place of Submission

 

324.1     Protests must be submitted to any member of the Jury at the location designated and announced at the team captain& meeting held prior to each event.

325       Deadlines for Submission

 

325.1     Against the admittance of a competitor:

          Before the draw.

 

325.2      Against the course or its condition:

 

          At least 60 minutes before the competition starts

 

325.3     Against competitor or competitors equipment or against an official because of irregular behaviour during the competition:

          Within 15 minutes after the last competitor has passed the finish.

 

          For Snowboard Cross heats before the next heat commences.

 

325.4     Against disqualification:

 

          Within 15 minutes after the posting or announcement of the disqualification.

 

325.5     Against the timekeeping:

 

          Within 15 minutes after the posting of the unofficial result list.

 

325.6     Against all instructions or decisions of the Jury:

 

          Immediately and within 15 minutes after the last competitor has passed the finish.

 

326       Form of Protests

 

326.1     A Jury only must accept a protest that demonstrates merit by including credible evidence.

 

Specific event-related PC media policies apply for the PWG and WCH regarding personal photography and filming of athletes during such competitions and whether or not the use of such photographs and video footage shall be permitted as evidence to defend a protest. For all other events, the use of personal photographs and video footage is admissible as evidence and may be relied on to lodge or defend a protest.

 

326.2     All Jury decisions are final except those that may be protested or appealed in accordance with these WPSB Rules and Regulations.

 

326.3     Protests must be submitted in writing to the Jury.

 

326.4     As exceptions, protests defined under art. 321.4 (made verbally), can be made verbally

327       Protest Fees

 

327.1     EUR 100 (or the equivalent in another valid currency) must be deposited with each protest. This deposit will be refunded if the protest is upheld. Otherwise, the funds will go to the WPSB account and used for the development of the sport.

 

327.2     A protest may be withdrawn by the protesting party before the publication of a decision by the Jury. In this case, the deposit must be refunded.

 

327.3     Protests not submitted in time or in the correct manner or submitted without the protest fee will not be considered.

 

328       Authorisation

 

The following representatives are authorized to submit protests:

 

          The NPC or authorized NSF

          The Head Coach or his/her representative.

 

329       Settlement of Protests by the Jury

 

329.1     The Jury meets to deal with protests at a predetermined place and time.

 

329.2     In dealing with a protest against disqualification the gate judge and, if needed, also the gate judge of the adjacent gate combinations or other involved officials, the competitor in question and the protesting team captain or trainer must be invited to attend the Jury hearing by the TD or Referee. The Jury will consider all the available and relevant information.

 

329.3     At the vote on the protest, only the Jury members are to be present. The WPSB Race Director chairs the proceedings. Minutes of the proceedings are to be kept and signed by all voting members of the Jury. The decision requires a majority of all voting members of the Jury, not just of those present. In case of a tie, the WPSB Race Director vote is decisive. Where an WPSB Race Director appointment is not in place, the TO assumes these responsibilities.

 

329.4     The decision is to be made public immediately after the proceedings are completed.

 

330       Appeals

 

330.1     Board of Appeal

 

330. 1.1 There shall be established a Standing Board of Appeal (Standing Boa) that will be composed of 5 members appointed by the STC Snowboard. The Standing Boa will be appointed during the spring meeting of the STC for the following competition season.

330.1.2  For each competition (PWG, WCHs and WCs) 3 members of the Standing Boa will be nominated by WPSB (or for the PWG, by the IPC) to act as the Boa. Following receipt of a Notice of Appeal, the IPC Sport Staff will advise the Boa of that fact and will copy the Notice to all Boa members.

330.1.3  No person shall sit on an Boa to hear an Appeal if the circumstances of the Appeal are such that they may have a conflict of interest or may reasonably be seen as having a conflict or otherwise biased either for or against the Appellant, or where they have been involved in the decision being appealed, Including as a witness.

 

330.1.4  The IPC Appointed Sport Staff person should advise all parties of the identity of the Boa members, and the email address for communication with the Boa as soon the notice has been circulated to the Boa.

 

330.2     Right of Appeal

 

330.2.1  Any sanction not related to the field of play may be appealed to the Boa and shall do so by filing with the WPSB Appointed Sport Staff person a written Notice of Appeal within 2 hours of the first notification of the decision being appealed.

 

330.3     Notice of Appeal

 

330.3.1  The Notice of Appeal must be endorsed by the Appellant’s NPC or NSF (assuming the Appellant is not such a body, in which case they will be required to sign in their capacity as Appellant) and must set out in full the grounds of the appeal, and evidence to be relied on and the legal and other arguments in support of the Appeal. The Notice must contain the appellants email contact and/or mobile or other telephone contact number and must be dated and signed by the Appellant.

 

330.3.2  Upon receipt, the Boa shall immediately conduct a review of the Notice of Appeal to determine whether the content, timing and delivery of the Notice of Appeal comply with these WPSB Rules and Regulations.

 

330.3.3  If the Notice of Appeal does not comply with these WPSB Rules and Regulations the Boa shall be entitled to dismiss the Appeal and if it does so it will notify the Appellant of its decision as soon as possible, which may be verbally or in writing. In this circumstance a fresh Notice of Appeal can be made within the applicable time limit for bringing appeals.

330.3.4  If the Notice of Appeal complies with these WPSB Rules and Regulations then the Appeal will be forwarded to the Chair of the Jury that made the decision under Appeal and any other party considered by the Boa to be relevant and affected by the Appeal. The Chair of the Jury and all affected parties shall be asked to submit a response to the Notice of Appeal within 12 hours.

 

330.4     Appeal procedures

 

330.4.1  The Appeal should normally be decided within 24 hours of receipt of the Notice of Appeal.

 

330.4.2  All Appeals and responses must be submitted in writing in English, including any evidence the parties intend to otter in support of or in response to the Appeal.

 

330.4.3  The Boa shall decide on the location and detailed procedure for the Appeal.

 

330.4.4  The Boa members are required to respect the confidentiality of the Appeal until the decision is made public and to consult only with the other members of the Boa during the deliberations. The Boa will publish the decision once it is made

 

330.4.5  The Appellant must cover the cost of 750€ (or equivalent currency) when submitting the Notice of Appeal to the WPSB Staff person. The Appellant will be responsible for any additional costs if the Appeal is lost.

 

330.4.6  Decisions of the Boa may be announced orally at the conclusion of the hearing and shall take effect from that time. The written decision, together with its reasoning, will be delivered to the parties involved, their NPC or authorized NSF and all members of the Jury whose decision was appealed as soon as possible following the hearing of the Appeal.

 

330.4.7  There shall be no further appeal or challenge to a decision of the Boa, which shall be considered final and binding on all parties including the IPC and WPSB.

 

330.4.8  Other than in respect of the time limits set out, any failure of any party to follow the procedural requirements will not invalidate the decision of the Boa unless in the opinion of the Boa the failure had a material effect on the decision that was made, or renders the decision unfair in some material respect.


Section 2: Rules common to All Snowboard Disciplines

 

For the technical organisation of the Paralympic Winter Games and World Para Snowboard World Championships the IPC Handbook is mandatory.

 

1300     Race organisation and management

 

Reference is made to article 309

 

1300.1   The Organizing Committee consists of those members (physical or legal) who are delegated by the organiser and by WPSB. It carries the rights, duties and obligations of the organiser.


 

1300.2             Appointments by World Para Snowboard

 

1300.2.1          World Para Snowboard Race Director


 

The World Para Snowboard RD is the authority representing World Para Snowboard at all World Cups, WCHs and Paralympic Games Para Snowboard events. The World Para Snowboard RD may represent the sport at lower level events, such as Continental Cup races, but this will be determined on a case-by-case basis, with direction from World Para Snowboard.

 

The World Para Snowboard Race Director reports to World Para Snowboard about the specific activities related to the WPSB events for which they have responsibility.


 

1300.2             Li Duties, rights and responsibilities

 

1300.2.1.2       Pre- Event

 

          Conducts site inspections prior to the event as determined by World Para Snowboard

          Verifies the course with the TD and in a “force majeure” course change situation works with the TO and Chief of Course to choose an appropriate alternate slope

 

          Ensures all Technical Requirements (for both training and competition) and all contract provisions are implemented in a timely fashion by the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) both prior to and during the event/competition

          Ensure SDMS downloads are prepared for Team Captains’ Meetings (TCM)

          Ensure assigned National Anti Doping Organization (NADO) individuals are aware of event plan and logistics

          Ensure that arrangements have been made with the Head of Classification for events that will also host Athlete Classification, as to what requirements will be necessary at the event

          Ensure that Equipment Testing logistics are arranged at events in which the RD is required to provide this function in place of the assigned STC Member

          Ensures that the Technical Delegate (TD) has all information required regarding the World Para Snowboard Rules and Regulations, and any other documentation as requested or believed required by the TD

          Communicates with the TD and the Chief of Course prior to the event and works loosely with them during the event

          Liaise with all World Para Snowboard STC members as required

          Liaise with the OC to ensure they have the login details to post entries prior to the competition

          The World Para Snowboard RD will work with the World Para Snowboard STC and Head of World Para Snow Sports, the OC and event sponsors (where applicable) in ensuring that event sponsors are fully supported with respect to contract expectations for the event

          To assist in determining opportunities and securing of sponsorship potential for the sport

 

1300.2.1.3       During Events

 

          Advocates for the athletes’ safety by ensuring that all aspects of safety and fair play have been adhered to throughout the entire event

          Will work closely with the Jury throughout the event to ensure the safety and fairness of the event

          Listens to input from coaches (as athlete spokespersons), which occurs only through representatives of the CAG on issues that may arise during an event; and communicates with the jury to determine the outcome to be applied in all aspects of the event on-site

          Must be part of all jury inspections before a course is deemed open for inspection

          Chairs the Jury and can also assume the role of the Referee at WPSB sanctioned events

          Conducts and chairs the Team Captains meetings

          Works with the nominated course setter for Snowboard Cross/Banked Slalom in a collaborative fashion. At PWG. WCH and WC (and COC level when present) events the WPSB Race Director has the discretion to set the courses.

          Supervises the complete execution of the race from course preparation during the event, course setting through to completion of the event when the last competitor has finished

          Ensures that all decisions are made collaboratively as the event jury, and communicates the outcomes of jury decisions in a timely fashion through a representative of the CAG (Connection Coach)

 

          Liaise with all World Para Snowboard STC members as required

          Has to have a full understanding of the WPSB software and supervise its correct use and assist in solving problems that may arise from OVR production (on venue results) Ensure that Adaptive Equipment meets the Field of Play (FOP) Rules

          Ensures that race results have been confirmed by the TD and correctly submitted to World Para Snowboard Headquarters in a timely manner

          Prepares and submits a post-event reports to the WPSB STC that outlines pre-event and event summaries, highlighting areas requiring improvement for the future competitions in the present competition season (this includes any recommendations relating to the World Para Snowboard Rules and Regulations)

          Once the event TD has signed the official results, the PDF results are uploaded to the WPSB official webpage and FIS webpage by the race administrator.

          The WPSB RD will work with the World Para Snowboard STC and Head of World Para Snow Sports and the OC to ensure that sponsor expectations are being met at the event

          Works with any television producer/director to ensure the correct placement of all TV cameras on course.

 

1300.2.1.4       Post Event

 

          Work together with the STC during the process of long-term competition calendar planning for all World Para Snowboard competitions in collaboration with WPSB Head of Snow Sports and WPSB STC

          Liaise with all World Para Snowboard STC members as required

          Gather feedback on the completed event from the CAG and Athletes’ Representative

          Prepares and submits a post-season report to the WPSB STC that outlines pre-event and event summaries, highlighting areas requiring improvement for the future competition season (this includes any recommendations relating to the WPSB Snowboard Rules and Regulations)

          The World Para Snowboard RD will work with the OC to prepare a post-event report on sponsorship promotion, placement and success, including direct feedback from sponsors on their perception of the events

 

1300.2.1.5       In WPSB races in which the World Para Snowboard Race Director is not present, the TD and Jury assume the duties, rights and responsibilities of the World Para Snowboard Race Director (that relate directly to the event).

 

1300.2.2          In WPSB World Cup and Continental Cup Races


 

          The WPSB Snowboard Race Director

          The TD

          The finish referee

          The course builder

 

13001.2 For Paralympic Winter Games and WPSB World Championships

 

          All Jury members

 

13001.3 In all other level of WPSB races where the WPSB Race Director is not present the

Technical Delegate appoints:

 

          The referee

 

1300.1.4 By these appointments the above persons become members of the Organising Committee.

 

1300.2   Appointments by the organizer

 

The organiser appoints all other members of the Local Organising Committee. The chairman or his representative represents the committee in public, leads the meetings and makes decisions concerning all matters that are not made by other persons or groups. Before, during and after the competition he works closely with the WPSB STC and their appointed officials. He takes on all other duties that are necessary for carrying out the competition.

 

The following officials must be appointed:

 

1300.2.1 The Chief of Competition

 

The Chief of Race directs all preparation of the competition and supervises the activities in the technical area. He summons meetings for consideration of technical questions and leads the team captains’ meetings after consultation with the Technical Delegate.

 

1300.22 The Chief of Course

 

The chief of course is responsible for the preparation of the courses in accordance with the directives and decisions of the Jury. He must be familiar with local snow conditions on the terrain concerned. In case course builder is appointed Chief of Course may assist Course Builder in course building and maintenance

 

1300.2.3 The Start Referee

 

The start referee must remain at the start from the beginning of the official inspection time until the end of a training/event.

 

          He makes sure that the regulations for the start and the start organisation are roperly observed.

          He determines late and false starts.

          He must be able to communicate immediately with the Jury at all times for stop, starts and restarts.

          He reports to the referee the names of the competitors who did not start and informs the Jury of all infringements against the rules, such as false or delayed starts or violations against the rules for equipment.

          He must ensure that reserve bibs are at the start.

 

1300.2.4 The Finish Referee

 

The Finish Referee must remain at the finish from the beginning of the official inspection time until the end of a training/event throughout the training and the race.

 

          He makes sure that all the regulations for the organisation of the finish and the finish in-run and out-run are property observed.

          He supervises the finish controller, the timing and the crowd control in the finish area.

          He must be able to communicate immediately with the Jury at all times.

          He reports the names of the competitors who did not finish to the Referee and informs the Jury of all infringements against the rules.

 

1300.2.5 The Chief of Finish

 

The Chief of Finish is responsible for the organisation and supervision of the finish area and the finish line Judges. The Chief of Finish will accept protests in the finish area. The Chief of Finish must report all protests immediately to the other jury members.

 

1300.2.6 The Chief of Timing and Calculations

 

The Chief of Timing and Calculations is responsible for the coordination of officials at the start and finish, including timing and calculations. The following officials are under his direction:

 

          Starter

          Assistant starter

          Start recorder

          Chief timekeeper

          Assistant timekeepers

          Finish controller

          Chief of calculations and his assistants

 

1300.2.7 The Chief Gate Judge

 

The chief gate judge organises and supervises the work of the gate Judges.

 

He designates the gates each will supervise and places them in position. At the end of the 1st run and the end of the competition he will collect the gate Judges control cards for delivery to the referee. He must distribute, in good time, to each gate judge the material that they need (control card, pencil, start list, etc.) and be prepared to offer assistance either to help keep the spectators off the course or to help maintain the course, etc.

He must make sure that the numbering and the marking of the gates is done within the required time.

 

1300.2.8 The Gate Judges

 

A gate judge will be responsible for the supervision of one or more gates.

A gate judge must observe accurately whether the passage of the competitor was correct through his area of observation. He must also fulfil a number of other important functions, all of which are described in detail under article 1304.

 

1300.2.9 The Race Secretary

The race secretary is responsible for all secretarial work for the technical aspects of the competition and amongst others for the preparation of the draw. He is responsible for the minutes of the technical officials, the Jury and team captains’ meetings.

He ensures that all forms for start, finish, timing, calculations, and gate- judging are well prepared, and handed over to the officials concerned in good order at the proper time. He receives official protests and gives them to those who are concerned. He facilitates the calculation of results by appropriate preparation and ensures that they are duplicated and published as quickly as possible after the completion of the competition.


 

1300.2.10       The Chief of Medical and Rescue Services


 

The Chief of Medical and Rescue Services is responsible for organising adequate first aid and medical coverage during the official training periods and the actual competition.

He must arrange an appropriate facility to which injured competitors should be taken and treated.

He coordinates plans with the team doctors before the start of the official training or the start of any competition.

During training and the races he must be in telephone or radio communication with his assistants. He must co-ordinate plans with the Chief of Race before the start of the official training, or start of any competition.

 

A doctor, who should be a good skier, should be ready at the start to deal with any eventuality and must stay in contact with the Jury and the members of the rescue service. This task can be delegated to a team doctor.


 

1300.2.11       The WPSB OVR Race Administrator


 

World Para Snowboard appoints the WPSB OVR race administrator.

 

He is responsible for:

 

          On-venue results, scoring and all printed documents,

          The communication between timer and race director.

 

1301     The Jury

 

The following members of the Jury are responsible for technical matters within the closed competition areas: the Technical Delegate

 

          The WPSB Race Director

          The Referee

          The Chief of Competition

          The Start Referee

          The Finish Referee

          The Video Controller (Only for PWGÌWCH/WC)

          The WPSB OVR Race Administrator (Only for PWGIWCH/WC)

          COURSE BUILDER OR TECHNICAL ADVISOR

 

1301.1   Appointment by the World Para Snowboard of the Jury for Paralympic Winter Games

 

          The Technical Delegate(s)

          The WPSB Race Director

          The Referee

          The Chief of Competition

          The Start Referee

          The Finish Referee

          The Video Controller

          -The WPSB OVR Race Administrator (non — voting rights)

          The Equipment controller (non — voting rights)

 

The Jury should include one lady if possible.

 

1301.2   Appointment by World Para Snowboard of the Jury for International Competitions

 

          The Technical Delegate(s) (WCH-WC-EC)

          The WPSB Race Director (WCH-WC-EC)

          he Referee (WCH-WC-EC)

          The Finish Referee (WCH-WC-EC)

          COURSE BUILDER OR TECHNICAL ADVISOR (non-voting rights)

 

1301.3   AlI Jury members must communicate in the IPC official language, English.

 

1302     Roles of the Jury

 

1302.1   The Technical Delegate (TD)

 

1302.2   In order to qualify; a proposed member must hold a valid licence as a Technical Delegate of the FIS.

 

1302.3   For PWG, World Para Snowboard will recommend the Technical Delegates to the IPC Governing Board for appointment.

 

1302.4   For WCHJWC/EC World Para Snowboard will appoint the TD/TAS.

 

1302.5   For all other level of races the process will follow the WPSB agreement with FIS.

 

1302.6   Exclusions

 

1302.7 A competitor cannot be a member of the Jury.

 

1302.8   Tenure of the Jury

 

The appointed Jury members gather for their first meeting prior to the first Team Captain’s meeting.

1302.9   The active duty of the Jury begins with its first meeting and ends, if no protest is submitted, at the expiration of the protest deadline, otherwise after dealing with all submitted protests.

 

1302.10 Voting

 

The WPSB Race Director is the chairman of the Jury. He/she conducts the Jury meetings. Each Jury member has a vote. In the absence of the WPSB Race Director, the TD is the chair of the Jury.

 

1302.11 Decisions are made by simple majority vote of members present.

 

1302.12 In the case of a tie, the Chair of the Jury has the casting vote.

 

1302.13 Minutes are to be kept of all meetings and decisions of the Jury and signed by each individual member of the Jury, with each individual vote on decisions recorded.

The minutes must be written in English.

 

1302.14 In cases where an immediate decision must be made and it is not possible to convene the entire Jury, each member of the Jury has the right, prior to or during the race, to make decisions which according to the rules per se are reserved to the Jury as a whole; but only provisionally with the obligation to have the decision confirmed by the Jury as soon as possible.

 

1302.15 Duties of the Jury

 

The Jury monitors the adherence to the rules throughout the entire race, including the official training.

From a technical standpoint particularly by:

          Checking the race-course and training course conditions

           Checking the snow conditions

          Checking the final course preparation

          Checking course maintenance operations

          Approving the use of chemicals

          Checking the safety equipment installation like B fences, mats, air fences etc

          Checking the FOP signage and delimitation nets

          Checking the crowd control systems

          Checking the start, the finish and the run-out from the finish

          Checking the first aid service

          Checking the time equipment day before competition time

          Checking the venue requirements

          Checking on the location of the television towers according with safety and TV picture

          Asking and overviewing course testing

          Requiring course changes in case and overviewing the operations

          Appointing the course setters

          Fixing the time of course setting

          Overseeing the work of the course setters

          Spot-checking of the gate flags

—    Opening or closing race courses for training after consideration of the technical preparations and the prevailing weather conditions Determining the method of the competitor’s course inspection

          Inspection of the course before the race

          Determining the number of forerunners for each run and setting the start order of the forerunners

          Debriefing the forerunners as necessary

          Changjng the start order after consideration of course conditions and in extraordinary conditions

          Changing the start intervals

          Giving instructions to and obtaining information from the gate judges

 

From an organisational viewpoint particularly by:

 

          Ranking of the competitors for the draw

          Division of the competitors without points into groups according to some determined basis

          Granting of re-runs

          Cancellation of the race (beforehand), if snow conditions are unsuitable

          The recommendations of the Technical Advisor’s report have not been carried out

          The first aid and medical service are inadequate or missing

          The crowd control is insufficient

          Shortening the course, if snow or weather conditions make this appear necessary

          lnterruption/ Termination of the race if the prerequisites of article 1317 are present

 

From a disciplinary viewpoint particularly by:

 

          Decision on a proposal of the Technical Delegate or a Jury member to exclude a competitor for lack of physical and technical ability

          Enforcement of the checks on regulations concerning advertising on equipment and clothing in the competition area

          Decisions on limitation of quotas for officials, technicians and medical personnel for admission to the race-course

          Imposition of sanctions

          Decisions on protests

          Issue of particular directives throughout the entire event

 

1302.16 Questions not Covered by Regulations

 

In general, the Jury takes decisions on all questions not clarified by the Regulations

 

1302.17 Radios

 

At all competitions published in the WPSB Calendar, the Jury members plus start and finish referee must be equipped with radios. These must function on a single reserved frequency and be free of interference.

 

1302.18 Duties and rights of the referee

 

          At the end of the first run, and again at the end of the race, the Referee will receive the Start and Finish Referees’ reports, and any other official reports regarding breach of rules and disqualifications.

          Checks, signs and posts the Referee’s Report on the official notice Board at the end of each run, and at the end of the race, including a list of disqualified competitors, the gate numbers where the faults occurred, the name of the relevant gate judge or judges, and the exact time of the posting.

          Sends a report to WPSB should unusual circumstances arise or in the event of a difference of opinion among the Jury members or in the case of severe injury to a competitor.

 

The Referee works very closely with the TD.

 

1303     The Technical Delegate (TD) and his duties

 

Works closely together with the WPSB Race Director

 

1303.1   Before the race

 

          He reads the TD reports concernìng previous events at the site and checks whether any improvements proposed in these reports have been carried out.

          Inspects the liability insurance certificate as required by article 309.3

          Reports when necessary to World Para Snowboard

          Inspects the competition courses.

          Supervises official trainings.

          Spot checks the gate flags and poles.

          Collaborates in the administrative and technical preparations.

          Checks the official entry lists, including WPSB points.

          Checks on the presence of sufficient radios for all members of the Jury (with separate frequencies).

          Takes note of the accreditation and the authorisation for entry to the competition course.

          Check the safety installations: mats, protection and delimitation fences

          Supervises the course setting together with the Jury.

          Supervises the locations of the first aid service along the course as well as the organisation of the medical care.

          Checks on all technical installations such as timekeeping, hand timing, communications, transport of people, etc.

          Is present in the race area during all official training.

          Takes part in all meetings of the Jury and of the team captains.

          Works closely together with the officials of the Organising Committee and the WPSB Race Director.

          If necessary, appoints members to the Jury.

 

1303.2   During the race

 

          Must be present in tfle course area.

          Works closely with the Jury, the team captains and the coaches.

          Observes that the valid rules and directives with regard to advertising, on clothing and race equipment are obeyed.

          Supervises the technical and organisational conduct of the event.

          Advises the organisation concerning the observance of the WPSB Rules and Regulations, and directives of the Jury.

 

13013    After the race

 

          Helps with the compilation of the Referees report.

          Calculates the race and penalty points for the individual races. If the computer calculates these points, it is the TD’s duty to re-check the points and to confirm their accuracy with his personal signature. Above all he checks the correct use of the corresponding F value for each event.

          Presents properly submitted protests to the Jury for decision.

          Signs the official resut lists provided by the race secretary and gives the authorisation for the award ceremony.

          Completes the TD report, including any supplementary reports and is responsible for their dispatch within three days to the FIS and the WPSB.

 

1303.4   In general

 

          Decides on questions, which are not covered or are insufficiently covered by the WPSB Rules, in so far as these have not already been decided by the Jury and do not fall within the scope of other authorities.

           Works very closely with the Referee

          Has the right to propose to the Jury the exclusion of competitors from participating in the race.

          Has the right to obtain support from the Organising Committee and all Officials under its jurisdiction in all matters necessary for the fulfilment of his duties

 

1303.5   Course Builder / Course Technical Advisor

 

Works closely together with the World Para Snowboard Race Director and TD and supports the Jury. IPC/World Para Snowboard can appoint a Technical Advisor for all categories of competitions.

 

The Technical Advisor has the right to express his opinion within the Jury — without the right to vote.

 

1303.5.1 Duties of the Course Builder / Course Technical Advisor

 

           Prepare design proposal working together with LOC, according with WPSB course requirements (section 6), slope characteristics and ski resort/LOC resources.

          Prepare a building and maintenance plan (snow volume, number of shapers, snowcats number and type, time-frame, equipment list, working schedule etc)

          Propose offseason improvements (snowmaking, ground works, anchor points etc.)

          Build the course according with the design agreed and approved by Race Director

          If needed, propose modifications in agreement with Race Director and LOC

 

1303.6   World Para Snowboard can appoint Technical Advisors to support the Jury. The Technical Advisor has no voting rights

 

1303.7   World Para Snowboard can impose sanctions against a Jury or individual Jury members.

 

1304     Gate Judges

 

1304.1   Every gate judge receives a check card with the following notations

 

          Name of the gate judge

          Number(s) of the gate(s)

          Designation of the run (1st, 2nd and 3rd / Qualification or Final)

 

1304.2   Each gate judge must have a thorough knowledge of the competition rules and must follow instructions of the Jury.

 

1304.3   It can happen that despite close observation of the competitions, a competent gate judge does not recognise, a fault committed by a competitor or judges a fault in error.

 

1304.4   When an adjacent gate judge, a member of the Jury or an official video controller makes a report concerning a competitor which differs from the notes of the gate judge in question, the Jury will freely interpret these notes in view of a possible sanctioning of a competitor or of a decision concerning a protest.

The decision handed down by the gate judge must be clear and non partisan. His conduct must be calm, watchful and prudent. In case of doubt, the gate judge should hold to the principle, “give the benefit of the doubt to the competitor”.

 

1304.5   If the gate judge is in doubt whether a fault has occurred, he can consult the adjacent gate judge in order to confirm their notes. He can even request via a member of the Jury that the competition be briefly interrupted, so that the tracks on the course may be checked.

 

1304.6   In all World Para Snowboard events the responsibility of the gate judge begins with the approaching of the competitor to the first gate he controls and ends when the competitor has passed through the last gate under their jurisdiction.

 

1304.7   Responsibility to the Competitor

 

1304.7.1 A competitor may in the case of an error or a fall, question the gate judge. The gate judge, where possible, must inform a competitor If he has committed a fault that would lead to a sanction / disqualification.

 

1304.7.2 In either case with a clear, decisive voice, the gate judge answers the competitor’s question or informs him with one of the following words:

 

»Go!» if the competitor should expect no sanction / disqualification, since the gate judge has determined that the gate passage was correct;

»Back!» if the competitor may expect a sanction / disqualification.

 

1304.7.3 The competitors themselves are fully responsible for their actions and in this respect they cannot hold the gate judge liable.

 

1305     Course setter

 

1305.1   For PWG/WCH1WC/EC the World Para Snowboard will appoint the course setters/ course builder. At PWG/’NCH events the World Para Snowboard Race Director will be appointed to set the courses.

 

1305.2   For the other competitions entered in the WPSB and the FIS Calendar appointments are done by the Jury or Organizer.

 

1305.3   The course setter work is supervised by the World Para Snowboard Race Director

 

1305.4   Replacement of course setters

 

The replacement course setter should have the same qualifications as the original course setter.

 

1305.5   Rights of the course setter

 

Recommend the introduction of changes in the competition terrain and in the safety measures.

To oversee the availability of a sufficient number of helpers for the setting of the course, so that he can concentrate solely on the course setting.

To control that a provision of all necessary materials is provided by the chief of course equipment.

 

1305.6   Duties of the course setter

 

In order to set the course appropriately, respecting the terrain, the snow cover and the ability of the participating competitors, the course setter conducts a pre-inspection of the race terrain in the presence of the TD, the Referee, the Chief of Race, and the chief of course.

The course setter sets the race course respecting the existing safety measures and course preparation. The course setter must take speed control into consideration.

All courses must be set according to the WPSB Snowboard Rule and Regulation Book

The courses must be set and ready. The competitors are not to be disturbed during course inspection.

 

The course setting is a task of the course setter alone. He is responsible for adhering to the rules of the WPSB and may be advised by members of the Jury, and by the WPSB Snowboard Race Director.

The course setters must participate in all team captains’ meetings at which a report is to be made about his course.

 

1306     Forerunners

 

The organiser is obliged to provide at least three forerunners who have signed the WPSB Eligibility Agreement. The forerunner is a member of the Organising Committee. The forerunners should participate in all training runs. In extraordinary conditions, the Jury may increase the number of forerunners.

The Jury may designate different forerunners for each run.

The forerunners must wear forerunner’s start numbers (bibs).

The nominated forerunners should have enough riding ability to cover the course in a racing manner.

Forerunners are not permitted to start in the competition.

The Jury determines the forerunners and their start order. After an interruption of the race additional forerunners may be authorised as necessary.

The times of the forerunners should not be published.

Upon request the forerunners must report to members of the Jury regarding the snow conditions, the visibility and the race line, as the case requires.

 

1307     Start, finish, timing and calculations

 

Communication

 

In all international competitions, multiple communications (telephone or radios, etc.) between the start and finish must be in place. Voice communication between starter and finish must be assured by fixed wire connection or radio. In case of radio, this must be on a separate channel from that used by any other function of the OC.

 

1307.1   Timing Equipment

 

For timing all events in the WPSB Calendar, electronic timers, start gates and photocells homologated by the FIS and approved by WPSB must be used.

A list of these approved devices will be published. Races using timing equipment other than those on the homologated WPSB list will not be considered for WPSB points.

Timing procedures are as per FIS Timing Booklet Alpine Skiing.

 

htto://data.fis-ski.com/aloine-skiin]timin-and-data. Html

 

1308     Start and finish officials

1308.1   The Starter

 

The starter must synchronise his watch with those of the assistant starter and by telephone or radio with the chief timekeeper within ten minutes of the start. The starter is responsible for the warning signal and the start command as well as for the accuracy of the intervals between these signals. He assigns the supervision of the competitors to the assistant starter.

 

1308.2   The Finish Controller

 

The finish controller has the following duties:

 

          Supervision of the section between the last gate and the finish

          Recording of the order of finishing of all racers who complete the course

 

1309     The Start

 

1309.1   The Start area

 

The start area must be closed oft to everyone except the starting competitors, accompanied by only one trainer and the start officials. The start area must be protected appropriately against inclement weather. A special roped off area must be provided for trainers, team captains, service personnel etc., in which they may take care of the waiting competitors without being interrupted by the public. An adequate shelter must be prepared for the competitors waiting for the call to start. Benches may be placed near the start gates to help the competitors in the preparations.

 

1309.2   The Start Ramp

 

The start ramp shall be prepared in such a way that the competitors can stand relaxed on the starting line and can quickly reach full speed after leaving the start. Push off posts will be installed on the starting installation for all World Para Snowboard events, the specifications will be adjusted to the needs of the specific event.

 

1309.3   Start Procedure

 

No official or attendant who could possibly give an advantage to or disturb the starting competitor may be behind him. All outside help is forbidden.

By order of the starter, the competitor must take his place behind the wand or start mechanism. The starter must not touch the competitor at the start. Pushing off from the start posts or other similar aids is allowed.

 

1309.4   Start Signals/Commands

 

For all single timed events (Snowboard Cross, Banked Slalom) the start signal is as follows:

Ten seconds before the start, the starter will tell each competitor »Ten Seconds». Five seconds before the start, he shall count »5, 4, 3, 2, 1» and then give the start command »Go — Partez — Los».

If possible, an automatic audible signal is to be used. The starter will let the competitor see the start clock.

For Snowboard Cross Finals the start command is as follows:

,,Riders ready — attention” — randomly 1—4 seconds before the doors open (this 1—4 seconds is up to the starter).

 

1309.5   Start timing

 

The start timing shall measure the exact time the competitor crosses the start line with his leg below the knee

 

1309.6   Delayed start

 

A competitor who is not ready to start on time will be sanctioned. The start referee may however excuse such a delay if, in his opinion the delay is due to “force majeure”. For example, breakdown of a competitor’s personal equipment or minor sickness of a competitor does not constitute “force majeure”.

In case of doubt, the Jury may allow the start provisionally.

 

1309.7   The start referee makes the decisions after consultation with the Jury and must record the start numbers and names of competitors who were not allowed to start because of late appearance, or who were allowed to start in spite of late appearance, or who were allowed to start provisionally.

 

1309.8   Valid start and false start

 

In competitions with a fixed start interval the competitor must start on the start signal.

The start time is valid if it occurs within the following limits: 5 seconds before and 5 seconds after the official start time. A competitor who does not start within that space of time will be disqualified.

The start referee must inform the Referee of the start numbers and names of the competitors who made a false start or have contravened the starting rules.

 

1310     Course and competition

 

1310.1   Course Setting

 

1310.1.1 Assistance

 

Assistance must be provided for the course setter, at a time to be fixed by the Jury, so that he can concentrate on the actual course setting and not be distracted by fetching poles, etc.

The chief of course equipment must provide enough of the following:

 

          Sufficient number of blue and red poles and stubbies

          A corresponding number of gate panels, divided by colours

          Hammers, drills, gate-keys, wedges etc.

          colouring substance for marking the position of the poles

 

1310.1.2 Triangular banners position

 

All gates with triangular banners must be set in a right degree angle (90°) to the general fall line of the course.

 

1310.1.3 Marking of the gates

 

The positions of the gate poles may be marked with an easily recognisable colouring substance which remains visible throughout the entire race.

 

1310.1.5 Marking of the course and terrain

 

Coloured dye used vertically from gate to gate as well as horizontally across the course or the inside and/or outside of the racing line before and after the gate notably on the approaches indicating changes in terrain, jumps, etc.

 

1310.1.6 Spare Poles

The chief of course equipment is responsible for the availability and correct placing of enough spare poles. The poles are to be placed so that the competitors are not mislead by them.

 

1310.1.7 Closing and Modification of the Course

 

A course is closed from the time the course setting begins. Nobody except for the Jury is permìtted to change gates, gate panels, markings, etc. or modify the course structure (jumps, bumps, etc.) on a closed course. All changes should be announced to athletes and team captains at the start.

Competitors are not permitted to enter a closed competition course.

Trainers, servicemen etc., who are allowed on a closed competition course are to be decided by the Jury.

 

Photographers and camera teams are allowed into the closed course area for the necessary documentation of the competition. Their total number can be limited by the Jury They will be located by the Jury where possible and must remain only in this area The Jury or the Organising Committee may close a course or sections of a course to competitors, trainers, media and service personnel outside of the actual competition or training times for preparation and maintenance purposes.

 

1310.1.8 Warm up Slope

 

Appropriate warm up slopes should be made available.

 

1311     Competition

 

1311.1   Passage of the Gates

 

A gate has been passed correctly when the competitor has at least the front foot fixed in the bindings on the Board and the entire Board crosses the gate line. In case of a fall, the competitor must pass through the turning gate line.

 

The gate line in triangular banner Banked Slalom and Snowboard Cross is the extension of the line at the base of the long pole to past the turning pole which connects the two points at the base of the banner.

 

In the event that a competitor removes a pole from its vertical position before the competitor’s Board and both feet have passed the gate line, the Board and feet still must pass the original gate line (dye marking in the snow). In the event that a gate pole or stubbie is missing the competitor is obligated to turn around the original placement mark to be considered as having passed the gate correctly.

 

1311.2   Interdiction to Continue after a Gate Fault

 

If a competitor misses a gate, he must no longer continue through further gates.

 

1312     The Finish

 

1312.1   The Finish Area

 

The finish area must be plainly visible to the competitor approaching the finish. It must be wide, with a gently sloped smooth outrun. It must be prepared.

In setting the course with gates, particular attention shall be paid to directing competitors across the finish on a natural line adapted to the terrain.

 

1312.2   The finish area is to be completely fenced in. Any unauthorised entry must be prevented. Finish installations arid closures should be set up or secured through suitable security protection measures.

 

1312.3   For competitors who have finished their runs, a special area, separated from the actual finish, is to be provided. In this area or corridor, it should be possible if applicable to make contact with the press (written and audiovisual).

 

1312.4   The Finish Line and its Markings

 

The finish line is marked by two posts or vertical banners which are connected by a horizontal banner.

In Snowboard Cross and Banked Slalom the finish must be no less than 10 m wide.

In exceptional cases, the Jury can decrease this distance for technical and security reasons or because of the terrain. The width of the finish is considered to be the distance between the two finish posts or banners. The timing supports must also be at least this far apart and are to be protected. The timing supports can usually be placed directly behind the finish posts or banners, on the downhill side. The finish line must be clearly marked horizontally with colouring substance.

 

1312.5   Crossing the finish line

 

The finish line must be crossed:

 

          With at least one foot attached to the Board

          With both feet in case of a fall in the immediate finish area. In this case the time is taken when any part of the competitor’s body or equipment stops the timekeeping system.

          In Snowboard Cross the competitor’s place of finish is determined when any part of the body or Snowboard crosses the finish line.

 

1313     Award ceremony

 

The LOC will arrange the Award ceremonies in consultation with World Para Snowboard.

 

1313.1   In the event an organizer chooses a flower or medal ceremony before the protest time has expired, it will be at its own risk and responsibility.

 

1314     Starting order

 

1314.1   The valid WPSB Snowboard points list must be used for the ranking of riders. The first group will consist of 8 and can be reduced to 4 if there are less than 10 riders or such other number as determined by the Jury.

 

1314.2   For Snowboard Cross and Banked Slalom a random manual draw will take place for the first group. The remaining competitors will be placed according to their ranking. All competitors without points will be drawn.

The Jury has the ability to change the start order.

 

1315     Start intervals

 

1315.1   Start Intervals in WPSB Snowboard Races

 

The start can take place in each discipline at variable intervals as determined by the Jury.

 

1316     Re-runs

 

A competitor who is hindered while competing by the error of an official, a spectator, an animal, or any other justifiable causes outside their control can apply to any member of the Jury for a provisional re-run immediately after the occurrence of the interference. This claim can also be made by the team captain of the hindered competitor. The competitor must leave the course immediately, or as soon as feasible after the interference, and must not continue riding further down the course but should make his/her way to the finish only on the side of the course.

This Rule does not apply In Snowboard Cross Finals.

In special situations (e.g. in case of missing gates, failure of the timekeeping system or other technical failures), the Jury may order a rerun.

 

1316.1   Grounds of interference

 

1316.1   Blocking of the course by an official, a spectator, an animal or other obstruction.

 

1316.1.2 Blocking of the course by a fallen competitor who does not clear the course quickly enough.

 

1316.1.3 Objects in the course such as equipment of a previous competitor.

 

1316.1.4 Activities of the first aid service which obstruct the racer.

 

1316.1.5 Absence of a gate knocked down by a previous competitor that has not been promptly replaced.

 

1316.1.6 Other similar incidents beyond the will and control of the competitor, which cause significant loss of speed or a lengthening of the racing line and consequently affect the competitors’ time.

 

1316.2   Validity of a re-run

 

1316.2.1 If the Referee or another Jury member is unable to question the appropriate officials immediately or to judge the justification for the re-un he may grant a provisional re-run, to avoid delay for the competitor. This re-run will be valid only if it is subsequently confirmed by the Jury.

 

13162.2 If the competitor was already disqualified before the incident entitling him to a re-run, the re-run is not valid.

 

1316.2.3 The provisional or subsequently approved run remains valid even if it proves slower than the obstructed one

 

1316.2.4 If a competitor is stopped by a yellow flag in Snowboard Cross or Banked Slalom during his/her timed run, he/she has the right to request a provisional re-run, under the condition that the Jury considers this possible from an organisational point of view.

The jury should ensure that the competitor’s provisional re-run takes place before the last competitor on the start list.

 

1316.3   Start time of re-run

The competitor must report to the start referee. The start referee will inform the competitor the start position.

 

1317      Interruption or Termination of the run or training

 

If an interrupted run cannot be finished on the same day, it is to be treated as a terminated run.

 

1317.1   By the Jury

 

1317.2   To allow course maintenance or to allow a fairer and more consistent course for all competitors.

 

1317.3   For unfavourable or inconsistent weather and snow conditions

 

1317.4   The competition is to be restarted as soon as the work on the course has finished and f the weather and snow conditions have changed so that a fair competition can be assured.

 

1317.5   A repeated interruption of the race ordered for the same reason should lead to a termination.

 

1317.6   Brief Interruption. Each member of the Jury is entitled to order a brief interruption of the run, including at the request of a gate judge

 

1317.7   The Jury will terminate a competition:

 

          If the competitors are significantly affected by outside disturbing influences.

          If conditions arise that interfere with the fairness of the race or if the proper conduct of the race may no longer be guaranteed.

 

1318     Not permitted to start (N PS)

 

This is not a DSQ

 

NOTE - Skis & Helmets

 

·               There is no provisional start for skis/helmets.

·               Racer is Not Permitted to Start (NPS).

·               Racer is NOT DSQ.

·               Racer has until second last racer in the run taking place to find skis/helmet correctly marked.

 

A competitor will not be permitted to start in any WPSB international competition who:

 

1318.1   Wears obscene names and/or symbols on clothing and equipment or behaves in an unsportsmanlike manner in the start area

 

1318.2   Does not wear a crash helmet that conforms to the competition equipment specifications or has not signed the waiver for equipment if needed

 

1318.3   Was disqualified (DSQ), was not permitted to start run 1 (NPS1), not permitted to start run 2 (NPS2), did not start (DNS), did not finish (DNF) or did not qualify (DNQ)

 

1319     Disqualifications

 

A competitor will be disqualified if he:

 

1319.1    participates in the race under false pretences

 

1319.2    jeopardises the security of persons or property or causes actual injury or damage

 

1319.1   Disqualification occurs if an athlete/guide does not pass through a gate correctly or does not start within the time limits.

 

1320     Competitions under artificial light

 

Competitions under artificial light are permitted and must be approved by World Para Snowboard.

 

1321     Poles

 

All poles used in the Snowboard Cross, Banked Slalom and Giant Slalom are subdivided into rigid poles and flex poles.

For WPSB competitions the poles must conform to the FIS specifications.

 

1322     Gate Flags

 

For WPSB competitions the gate flags must conform to the FIS specifications.

 


 

Section 6: Specific rules for WPSB Snowboard

 

1400     World Para Snowboard courses

 

1401     Technical data for Snowboard Cross

 

1401.1   Snowboard Cross Head To Head (LEVEL 1 see appendix 1 page 77 for details)

 

1401.1.1 Vertical drop. Vertical drop min 100 m - max 250 m. Vertical drop of the course may be reported in the starting list and final results.

 

140 1.1.2       Length of the course min 500m max 1.000m. Course angle average 12°± 30 Running time of approximately 40 seconds to 70 seconds. Length of the course may be reported in the starting list and final results.

 

140 1.1.3 Width: slope may be minimum 40m wide. In special case World Para Snowboard Race Director can authorize exceptions for short parts of the course. Course Width may be minimum 10 m, recommended 12 m minimum

 

1401.1.4 Start section of course may be a straight line between start and first bank, The section should be designed so as to separate the competitors as quickly as possible after the star. Technical data: Minimum 100 m length, 6-8° angle of track after the start platform, minimum 10m width.

 

1401.1.5 General characteristic and terrain: The preferred slope is classified blue red varying from 10 to 20 degrees, according to the requirements above. Various terrain is preferable. Starting section and finish area are the first two elements that need to be fixed.

 

1401.1.6 The course may be designed and built to include conditions to enable the riders to generate speed and not to have to control it during their performance. Various changes of speed and rhythms along the course are preferable.

 

1401.1.7 The ideal WPSB Snowboard Cross may allow the construction of any features excluding: gap jumps, corner jumps, spines and double spines, cutting banks, negative banks. It is important to avoid the features with different transverse take-off and landing angles, and the ones that require a change of direction on air. In any case competitor safety considerations and riding level of the athletes must always be apriority.

 

140 1.1.8 The track may be closed to the public and training camps at least 24 hours before the competitions.

 

1401.2   Snowboard Cross Time Trial only with no dual finals (LEVEL 1)

 

1401.2.1 Vertical drop. Vertical drop min 70m - max 150m. Vertical drop of the course may be reported in the starting list and final results.

 

1401.2.2 Length of the course min 400 m max 700 m. Course angle average 12°± 30/20 — 25%. Running time of approximately 30 seconds to 60 seconds. Length of the course may be reported in the starting list and final results.

 

140 1.2.3 Width: slope may be minimum 40 m wide. In special case World Para Snowboard Race Director can authorize exceptions for short parts of the course. Course Width may be minimum 6 m, recommended 10 m minimum

 

1401.2.3 Start section of course may be a straight line between start and first bank. Technical data: minimum 40 m length, 6-8° angle of track after the start platform, minimum 6 m width.

 

1401.3   General characteristic and terrain: The slope may be preferable classified blue — red slope/ varying from 10 to 20 degree, according with the requirements above. Variations in terrain are preferable. Starting section and finish area are the first two elements that need to be fixed.

 

1401.4   The course may be designed and built to put in conditions the riders to generate speed and not to have to control it during the performance. Various changes of speed and rhythms along the course are preferable.

 

1401.5   The ideal WPSB Snowboard Cross may allow the construction of any features excluding: gap jumps, corner jumps, spines and double spines, cutting banks, Giant Slalom turns, negative banks. Basically it is important to avoid the features with different transverse take-off and landing angle, and the ones that require a change of direction on air. In any case competitor safety considerations and riding level of the athletes must always be a priority.

 

1401.6   The track may be closed to the public and training camps at least 24 hours before the competitions.

 

1402      Technical data for Banked Slalom (LEVEL 1 — 2)

 

1402.1   Vertical drop min 100 m - max 250 m. Vertical drop of the course may be reported in the starting list and final results.

 

1402.2   Length of the course min 400 m - max 1000 m. Course angle average 15°+ 30/20 35%. Running time of approximately 30 seconds to 90 seconds. Length of the course may be reported in the starting list and final results.

 

1402.3   Width: slope may be minimum 25 m. Course width minimum 4 m.

 

1402.4   General characteristic and terrain: it may be medium pitched slope. It may be preferably a natural various terrain, plenty of bumps and dips, preferably a U shape/natural valley.

 

1402.5   The course may be designed and built following the terrain profile, preferably using natural snow. Any features are allowed, but competitor’s safety considerations and riding level of the athletes must always be a priority.

 

1402.6   The track course may be built in a way that the competitors are able to ride keeping always the Board parallel to the surface during the performance. In the turns appropriate banks may be built and shaped. Minimum distance between the banks/gates after the first gate may be minimum 14 m.

 

1402.7   The track may be closed to the public and training camps at least 24 hours before the event.

 

1402.8   Start Ramp

 

The Start Ramp shall be prepared in such a way that the competitors can stand relaxed on the starting line and can quickly reach full speed after leaving the start. Push off posts will be installed on the starting installation for all events. The specifications will be adjusted to the needs of the specific events. In Banked Slalom and Giant Slalom the first gate on the course must be straight from the start gate.

 

1402.9   Start Gates

 

The Start gates for all World Para Snowboard competitions/disciplines must meet FIS homologation standards with the exception of Snowboard Cross which is only a 2 person start gate. A Banked Slalom/Giant Slalom start gate may be a single Snowboard Cross start gate.

For Snowboard Cross the start gates must open simultaneously and a competitor must not be able to push the gates open.

 

1402.9.1 Malfunction of the start gate

 

If one or both starting machine gates have been blocked because of technical malfunction, without the competitor touching the gate before the starting signal was given, the start must be repeated.

 

1403      Technical data for Giant Slalom

 

1403.1   Vertical drop min 200 m — max 400 m. Vertical drop of the course may be reported in the starting list and final results.

 

1403.2   Length of the course min 400 m - max 600 m. Course angle average 15°± 3 / 20 — 35%. Running time of approximately 30 seconds to 90seconds. Length of the course may be reported in the starting list and final results.

 

1403.3   Width: slope may be minimum 30 m.

 

1403.4   The distance between the nearest poles of two successive gates must riot be less than 10 meters. The gates must be set so that the competitors can distinguish them clearly and quickly even at high speed. The banner of a gate should be set at right angles to the racing line.

 

1403.5   General characteristic and terrain: medium pitched slope, preferably with various grades.

 

1403.6   The course may be perfectly groomed and the snow surface may be compacted.

 

1403.7   The triangular gate flags have to be placed at right angles (900) to the fall line at the bottom of the gate. The triangular gate flags are to be fastened at the bottom of the gate.

 

1403.8   Number of gates

 

The Giant Slalom has to be set as follows:

 

It is recommended to set with a distance of between 20—27 meters between turning gates in Giant Slalom (Exception: Banana Gates). The results list must show the number of turns and number of gates. Example: 25 (turns) /30 (gates).

 

1404      Course design. Course building and maintenance plan.

 

1404.1   Design of course has to be approved by World Para Snowboard Race Director in advance.

 

1404.2   The building and maintenance plan of the course may be agreed by all the parts and approved in advance by World Para Snowboard Race Director.

 

1405      Course testing

 

1405.1   Before the event, the Jury may allow an official course testing

 

1405.2   All the safety equipment may be installed on the course

 

1405.3   Medical staff may be on place during the course testing

 

1405.4   Only competitors are allowed to test the course, according with the equipment requirements (helmet is mandatory)

 

1405.5   The teams may communicate to WPSB the riders list available for the course testing 7 days before the competitions

 

1405.6   Jury may select minimum 3 or maximum 5 riders based on: competitors availability, local national team athlete/athletes, world cup ranking, one per gender, different classes, turnover principle.

 

1405.7   Only the coaches may attend the course testing, according with JURY indications and they are allowed to film the course testing

 

1405.8   The course may be set and gates may be on place

 

1406     Gates and course setting.

 

1406.1   Gates

 

1406.1.1 A Snowboard Cross/Giant Slalom/Banked Slalom gate consists of one stubby flex pole (turning pole) and one long slalom pole (outside pole) which are connected with a triangular gate flag.

 

1406.1.2 Consecutive gates must alternate in colour except banana gates (which are considered to be one turn therefore one colour) that must be the same colour gates and flags.

 

1406.1.3 The gates must be set so that the competitors can distinguish between them clearly and quickly even at high speed. The triangular gate flag of a gate should be set at right angles to the racing line.

 

1406.1.4 In certain circumstances competitors may be required to pass between two gates of the same colour (for example: corridors).

 

1406.2   Course setting

 

1406.2.1 The setting of the gates must be done before the official inspection and training and should incorporate the skilful use of the terrain with the integration of terrain features and jumps into the setting.

 

1406.2.2 Minor adjustments in the setting may be necessary during the training to adjust the course for a smooth race line.

 

1406.2.3 Any changes made during training should be announced in the start area so all competitors and Team Captains are aware of any such changes.

 

1406.2.4 Giant Slalom second run should be reset on the same slope according with rule 1310.

A new course setter is preferable.

 

1406.2.5 Immediately after the course setting, the coaches have the possibility to inspect the course according with Jury recommendation. In the finish area the coaches can provide their remarks or official protest to the Jury regarding the course preparation and course setting, before official inspection and training.

 

1407      Inspection/Training

 

1407.1   The competitors are allowed to inspect the course by slowly sliding down through or alongside the course. Inspection times are at the discretion of the Competition Jury but should be a minimum of 15 minutes. Competitors must visibly wear their start numbers and their helmets.

 

1407.2   At least one training run prior to the actual competition is mandatory in Snowboard Cross and Banked Slalom normally the training session should be 1—2 hours in length and if possible should be held the day before the actual competition (under certain mitigating circumstances the competition Jury may decide other possibilities).

 

1408     Execution of Snowboard Cross (head to head event)

 

1408.1   Formats 2 competitors per heat (16 men/ 8 women) or such other numbers as determined by the Jury based on field sizes in each category. Qualification runs have one competitor on the track at a time. Qualification normally involves two runs but the jury can decide otherwise in its sole discretion taking into account variables including, but not limited to, the weather and field sizes. Any change by the Jury must be announced before the first run begins. The timed qualification runs are be used to qualify competitors for the finals.

 

1408.1.1 There are three (3) timed qualification formats:

 

One Run Qualifications — all competitors take one (1) timed run.

 

Two Run Qualification — all competitors take two (2) timed runs; the best run out of the two determines the qualification ranking.

 

a)               Two timed runs in “Cut Down System” — From qualification run 1, top 50% of the final number of athletes in a category (e.g. LLI Men or LL2 Men etc.) will be ranked by time (e.g Brackets 16 Men, 8 qualified after Run 1 ranked 1 to 8, 8 Ladies 4 qualified after Run 1 ranked 1 to 4)

 

          Only the athletes not qualified from Qualification Run 1 will take a second qualification run

          Start order Second Qualification run will be the same start order of the first qualification run, taking out the already qualified athletes.

          The best qualification run of the two, counts for the remaining athletes (e.g. for the 16 bracket they will be ranked 9 to 16, for 8 bracket they will be ranked 5 to 8)

 

A competitors who did not finish (DNF) or were disqualified (DSQ) in qualification run one (1) or did not start (DNS) can participate in qualification run two (2).

 

1408.2   In Snowboard Cross there are 2 start gates on the start platform. One gate may be used as start of qualification run 1 and the other one for qualification run 2 in order to guarantee the same snow conditions of the track during the finals.

 

1408.3   False Starts

 

Disqualification will take place:

 

When a competitor manipulates the starting gates; and/or

 

When a competitor’s Board (entire body counts if a western style start gate is used) passes the starting line (vertical plane) before the final starting signal has been given (audible and/or visible).

 

1408.4   For the 2nd qualification run all competitors including DQs, DNFs and DNSs will start in the same order as the first run.

 

1408.5   Contact

 

Intentional contact by pushing, pulling, positioning an arm in front of another competitor to avoid being passed or other means which causes another competitor to slow down, fall or exit the course is not permitted. Blocking, by intentional movements of the body or an abrupt and radical changing of the actual riding line for blocking reasons is also not permitted. Any of the described intentional contacts will cause an automatic disqualification sanction. Unavoidable ‘casual contact” may be acceptable. All contact infractions will be at the discretion of the course Judges and competition Jury.

 

1408.6   Ties in Snowboard Cross Qualification

 

In the event of a one run qualification if two competitors are tied they will receive the same rank and will be seeded into the finals with the higher start number seeded ahead of the other tied competitor. If two or more competitors have the same best time, the tie will be broken by their total time of the two qualifications runs. If they are still tied, the ties will be broken using the highest WPSB Snowboard points standing. If they are still tied all of the competitors will receive the same rank but the competitor with the higher bib number will be ordered first. The following tie-breaking rules do not apply to competitors who are tied for the last qualification rank (of 8 ladies or 16 men’s place or for any of the last places in the brackets as determined by the jury). If two or more competitors are tied, all competitors will run as many run-otis as required until the ties are broken. If this run-off format both (or more) competitors run together. A draw will be done at the start to determine start gate position.

 

1408.6   In special event Jury can decide to change the format in 4 or 6 per heat.

 

1408,7   Protests

 

1408.7.1 Report of Protests

 

Disqualification f Sanctions will be announced and/or posted immediately after each heat at a designated area at the bottom and/or top of the course. All protests must be reported to the Chief of Finish and or another Jury member or to a jury appointed person (which is announced at the Team Captains meeting) before the next heat begins. Protests received after this time will not be accepted. A competitor does not need to stop their run and/or raise their hand if they think that they have been interfered with by another competitor in order to have the right to protest Protests need not be in writing but all other IPC rules for protests will apply, The protest fee must be paid at or before the conclusion of the competition.

 

1408.7.2 Handling of Disqualifications! Sanctions caused by intentional contact

 

If a competitor is disqualified /sanctioned because of intentional contact, they will be automatically ranked as last iri their heat and listed as DIC in the result list. All other competitors, even if they are victims of this intentional contact, will be ranked as they came into the finish.

 

No re-runs will be conducted in Snowboard Cross in cases of intentional contact(s). Re-runs will only be considered by the Jury in the case of force majeure or if the competitor(s) were interfered with by other persons or circumstance outside of that presented by fellow competitors in that heal

 

1409     Finals Snowboard Cross (head to head event)

 

1409.1   Finals are based on 16 men / 8 ladies /2 competitors per heat or such other numbers as determined by the Jury. In special circumstances 32 men arid/or 16 ladies are allowed.

 

1409.2   In case there are less than 16 men/ 8 ladies competitors per class, the brackets may be defined following the indications below:

 

·               16 men — minimum 13 competitors on the starting list with 3 bye

·               8 men / ladies minimum 6 competitors in the starting list with 2 bye

·               4 men/ladies minimum 3 competitors in the starting list with 1 bye

·               2 men/ladies 2 competitors in the starting list

 

Jury can decide to define different brackets in case of special conditions.

 

1409.2.1 Seeded groups without timed runs

 

The competitors will be seeded according to their actual WPSB or World Cup points standing. In WPSB World Cup Snowboard Cross competitions, the competitors will be seeded using their current World Cup or WPSB points, whichever are higher.

For COC competitions, CCC or WPSB points will be used, whichever are higher.

In the PWG, WCH and WC competitions this format may work as an alternative in extraordinary conditions only and the competitors should be seeded using the current World Cup or WPSB points, whichever is higher.

The Jury will announce at the TC-Meeting:

 

          Number of qualified competitors

          If necessary, the number of rounds

          Number of heats including number of qualified competitors per heat

 

1409.3   Snowboard Cross will be run according to a single knockout format.

 

The first competitor (2 riders per heat) advance from round to round as determined by their place of finish in each heat. Place of finish is determined by the first part of the body or Snowboard that crosses the finish line. Whenever possible, a finish line camera (video or photo finish) should be available. In case of a tie, at the finish line, such tie(s) will be broken after reviewing if available the photo-finish presentation If a tie still exists, the competitors concerned will be ranked according to the fastest qualification time. In the case where the same qualification time exists (best time out of two runs), the tie will be broken by using the total time of both qualification runs. If a tie still exists, the competitor with the higher bib number (based upon qualifyingtime) will be scored as first.

 

The competitors who do not advance in 1/8 finals heats will be grouped according to their placing in the heat and then ranked within that group according to their qualifying time. In any case a competitor who has qualified for a certain group (1/8 final, 1/4 final, etc.) will remain in this group and be ranked there. For example: Once a competitor is qualified for top 16 they will remain for scoring purposes in the top 16 group.

Special events Jury can change the number of competitors advance from round to round

 

1409.4   Race Bibs

 

Must be 2 different colours in each heat or numbered bibs with numbers on front, back and sleeves for better visibility by the course judges.

 

In order to differentiate between the two competitors, different coloured (red arid green) race bibs must be used. If that is not possible, different coloured leg bands (red and green) must be used in addition to the (same colour) race bibs. The Race Director or Jury may approve colours other than red and green.

 

Special event it may be required more than 2 different colours.

 

1409.5   The competitors who drop out/DNS without communicating and announcing the decision in advance to a Jury before the qualification run 1 or 2 or the finals will be sanctioned

 

1410     Snowboard Cross (Head to Head events)

 

Pairings for the finals will be according to the following, excluding Special Event

 

1410.1   FINALS

 

Ranking for 8 heats/2 per heat (16) MEN

 

 

1411     Final Ranking

 

1411.1   Competitors are ranked according to their place of finish in the final heat and in the consolation round. All remaining competitors’ are ranked according to the round they go out In (e.g. quarter finals) and their qualification times within that round.

 

1411.2   DNS, DSQ, DNF in Snowboard Cross Finals

 

If a competitor does not start in the round of 16 or the round of 8 or round of 4 they will be automatically ranked last in the round of 16, 8 or 4 respectively. If two competitors are DNF/DSQ, they will be ranked in the heat on 1st/2nd position according to their qualification time.

 

 

 

WPSB International competitions or WPSB National Championships.

 

1412      Execution of Snowboard Cross, Banked Slalom and Giant Slalom (Time trail events)

 

1412.1   Format with single competitor timed runs

 

1412.1.1 Timed runs are used to rank competitors, with one competitor on course at a time.

 

1412.1.2 LEVEL 1, 2 & 3 All competitors take three (3) timed runs for Snowboard Cross – Banked Slalom — The best (fastest) timed run out of three (3) timed runs will be used to determine the final results. Under special circumstances jury may allow format with one (1) or two (2) timed runs, best (fastest) timed run out of two (2) will be used to determine the final results. This jury decision should be announced at the TC meeting before competition, and must be announced at the latest before the start of the official qualification training.

All competitors take two (2) timed runs for Giant Slalom. The two times will be combined and used to determinate the final results. DSQ, DNF and DNS are not permitted to start the second run.

 

1412.1.3 Start list 1st run: Random draw of best 8 (or 4) by WPSB Snowboard points, done on TC meeting.

 

1412.1.4 Start list 2nd run: Same order as athletes in 1st run including DNF. DSQ, and DNS for Banked Slalom and Snowboard Cross only

 

1412.1.5 Start list 3rd run: Same order as athletes in 1st run including DNF, DSQ and DNS for Banked Slalom and Snowboard Cross only.

 

1412.1.6 The competitors who drop out/DNS without communicating and motivating the decision in advance to a Jury member before any run will be sanctioned

 

1412.2   Re-runs

 

A competitor, who is hindered, stopped or interfered while competing by the error of an official, by a spectator, by an animal, or by any other justifiable causes outside their control can apply to any member of the Jury for a re-run immediately after the occurrence of the interference.

This claim can also be made by the team captain of the hindered competitor.

The competitor must leave the course immediately or as soon as possible after the interference and may not continue riding further down in the course (only on the side of the course).

In case competitor does not leave the course and continue to race down to the finish line, request for re-run will be considered not valid.

In special situations or other technical failures i.e. failure of start gate(s) or timing systems), the Jury may order a re-run.

If a competitor is stopped by a yellow flag, he has the right to request a provisional rerun, under the condition that the Jury considers this possible from an organizational point of view. The jury should ensure that the competitor’s provisional re-run takes place before the last competitor on the start list.

 

1412.2.1 Grounds for interference

 

Blocking of the course by an official, a spectator, an animal or other hindrance.

Blocking of the course by a fallen competitor, who did not clear the course soon enough

Stopped with yellow flag by competition official for any reason Objects in the course such as equipment of a previous competitor

Activities of the first aid service which hinder the competitor.

Absence of a non-marked gate knocked down by a previous competitor, and not promptly replaced

 

Other similar incidents, which, beyond the will and control of the competitor, cause significant loss of speed or affects the competitors’ performance and thereby can affect his result.


 

1412.2.2        Provisional re-run


 

In case the Referee or another Jury member is unable to question immediately the appropriate official or judge the justification for the provisional re-run request, he may, to avoid delay for the competitor or competition, grant a provisional re-run. This provisional rerun will be valid only if it is confirmed by the Jury.

If the competitor was already disqualified before the incident entitling him to request a provisional re-run, the request for the provisional re-run is deemed to be not valid.

The provisionally or definitively approved re-run remains valid even if it proves worse than the original run.

If the claim for provisional re-run is shown to be unjustified, the competitor will be subject to sanction(s).


 

 

14 12.2.3      Start time of the re-run


 

In case of fixed start intervals, the competitor may start a re-run at the fixed interval, after he has reported to the start referee. The start referee’s should allow the competitor a reasonable amount of time to compose themselves prior to such start.

 

1412.3   Ties

 

If two (2) or more competitors have the same combined times, calculating the total time of their three (3) runs will break the tie. Ties in two (2) timed runs format will be broken by their total time of two (2) runs. If they are still tied, the tie will be broken using the WPSB Snowboard Cross Points list. If the tie cannot be broken, they will receive the same ranking and WPSB Snowboard Cross Points but the competitor with the higher start number shall be listed first on the official list of results.

 

1412.4   Gate judges

 

Between 4-8 gate judges (with control section gate judges being provided radios connected with the Finish Referee and the rest of the Jury) on a Snowboard Cross is necessary. Control section gate judges must be familiar with the rules (Inspection, Training, Gate-DSQs, Contact etc.).

 

1413      Race points calculation process

 

For every international competition registered in the WPSB calendar, WPSB points are awarded from 1st place down to 90% of the ranked competitors or 100th place, whichever is the lower number.

 

The calculated 90% will be always rounded up (e.g. 41.1% becomes 42).

 

1413.1   Point-Scales

 

Points will be awarded according to the following scales:

The point values for all scales are based on the same percentage points awarded as in scale 1000 for 1st, 2nd , 3rd , 4th, 5th 99th, 100th place in relation to the first place.


 

1413.2   Competition levels and corresponding scales

 

1413.2.1 Level 1 competitions: Scale 1000 WPSB Points

 

Paralympic Winter Games, World Championships, World Cup are considered Level 1 competitions

 

14 13.2.2       Level 2 competitions: Scale 260 to scale 130 WPSB Points Continental Cups

 

14 13.2.3       Level 3 competitions: Scale 160 to scale 50 WPSB Points

National Championships

 

14 13.2.5       Selection of the scale for Level 1, 2 and level 3 competitions


 

The calculation for the Level I & Level 2 WPSB point level of an international competition (Paralympic Games, WC, WCH, Continental Cups) is based on the average (arithmetic mean) of the WPSB points of the best 5 competitors who have started in the competition (behind comma always rounded up e.g. 380,4 - 381 points) and of those best 5 competitors the best 3 who have finished. When a category has less than 5 competitors the point scale will be calculated from the 100 point level.

At all other Snowboard competitions (Level 3) WPSB points will be awarded if 3 competitors (with or without WPSB points) have started and at least 2 have finished in each category. When a category has less than 3 competitors the point scale will be calculated from the 50 point level.

If only 3 or 4 competitors have finished (or 2 in Level 3 events) the competition, the sum of their WPS Points is still divided by the minimum number of starters required in the category to obtain the WPSB points level for the competition. After the calculation of the average points, one of the scales, which are listed under the points scales below, is selected.

To choose the best possible scale, the average point value must be equal to or higher than the corresponding entry point.

If only 3 or 4 competitors have finished the competition, the sum of their WPSB Points is still divided by 5 to obtain the WPSB points level for the competition. After the calculation of the average points, one of the scales, which are listed under item 1409, is selected.


1414      Point scales

 

 

Points will be awarded according to the following scales:

 

1415      WPSB Snowboard Cross Banked Slalom Giant Slalom Time Trial Points calculation process

 

14151    Evaluated results

 

For each new list the average of the competitor’s best two results from the previous 12 months will be calculated in order to give their WPSB Snowboard Cross/Banked Slalom/Giant Slalom Point on that list.

 

1415.2   No results

 

If a competitor does not have any valid results in the previous 12 months, a penalty of reducing the 40 % of the Snowboard Cross points will be applied.

 

1415.3   One result

 

If a competitor has only one result in the previous 12 months, a penalty of reducing the 20 % of the Snowboard Cross points will be applied

 


 

GLOSSARY OF ACRONYMS

SB          Snowboard

PC         International Paralympic Committee

WPSB    World Para Snowboard

STC       Sport Technical Committee

WCH      Snowboard World Championships

WC        World Cup

COC      Continental Cup

EC         European Cup

AC         Asian Cup

FIS         Fédération Internationale de Ski (International Ski Federation)

ICR        International Competition Rules (of FIS)

NORAM North American Cup

NC         National Championship

NG         Number of Gates

NPC       National Paralympic Committee

NSF       National Ski Federation

LOC       Local Organizing Committee

PWG      Paralympic Winter Games

SHC       Southern Hemisphere Cup

TD          Technical Delegate

TA          Technical Advisor

VD         Vertical Drop

TT          Time Trial

BSL        Banked Slalom

SBX       Snowboard Cross

HH         Head to Head

GS         Giant Slalom

 


Appendix 1

                World Para Snowboard Classification Rules and Regulations

 

August 2017

 

World Para Snowboard

Adenauerallee 212-214           Tel. +49 228 2097-200

 

53113 Bonn, Germany            Fax +49 228 2097-209 www.WorldParaSnowboard.org        WorldParaAlpineSkiing@paralympic.org

 

Table of Content

 

Table of Content                                                                           2

 

Part One: General Provisions                                                      5

 

1    Scope and Application                                                            5

 

2    Roles and Responsibilities                                                                   7

 

      Part Two: Classification Personnel                                                    9

 

3    Classification Personnel                                                                9

 

 

4    Classifier Competencies, Training and Certification                 10

 

5    Classifier Code of Conduct                                                12

 

      Part Three: Athlete Evaluation                                               13

 

6    General Provisions                                                              13

 

7    Eligible Impairment                                                                                 13

 

8    Minimum Impairment Criteria                                                                                                                  16

 

9    Sport Class                                                                                                                                                                 17

 

10  Classification Not Completed                                                                                         18

 

      Part Four: Athlete Evaluation and the Classification Panel               19

 

11  The Classification Panel                                                                                                                      19

 

12  Classification Panel Responsibilities                                         19

 

13  Evaluation Sessions                                                                                        20

 

14  Observation in Competition                                                                                                                            21

 

1Sport Class Status                                                                   23

 

16  Multiple Sport Classes                                                             25

 

1Notification                                                                               25

 

Part Five: Sport Class Not Eligible                                                           26

 

1Sport Class Not Eligible                                                                                                                                   26

 

Part Six: Protests                                                                                                                                    28

 

1Scope of a Protest                                                                     28

 

2Parties Permitted to Make a Protest                                                                                    28

 

2National Protests                                                                         28

 

2National Protest Procedure                                                                                                                               29

 

2World Para Snowboard Protests                                                                                        30

 

2World Para Snowboard Protest Procedure                             30

 

2Protest Panel                                                                                                                                                        30

 

2Provisions Where No Protest Panel is Available                            31

 

2Special Provisions                                                              32

 

28  Ad Hoc Provisions Relating to Protests                                                                                        32

 

      Part Seven: Misconduct during  Evaluation Session                33

 

29  Failure to Attend Evaluation Session                                          33

 

3Suspension of Evaluation Session                                            33

 

      Part Eight: Medical Review                                                          35

 

31  Medical Review                                                                        35

 

Part Nine: Intentional Misrepresentation                                    36

 

32  Intentional Misrepresentation                                                               36

 

      Part Ten: Use of Athlete Information                                                         38

 

33  Classification Data                                                                                                                                  38

 

34  Consent and Processing                                                           38

 

35  Classification Research                                                        38

 

3Notification to Athletes                                                                                   39

 

37  Classification Data Security                                                        39

 

38  Disclosures of Classification Data                                           39

 

39  Retaining Classification Data                                                                         39

 

40  Access Rights to Classification Data                                     40

 

41  Classification Master Lists                                                      40

 

Part Eleven: Appeals                                                                   41

 

42  Appeal                                                                              41

 

4Parties Permitted to Make an Appeal                                                 41

 

44  Appeals                                                                                       41

 

45  Ad Hoc Provisions Relating to Appeals                                                 41

 

Part Twelve: Glossary                                                              42

 

Appendix One                                                                   48

 

Athletes with Physical Impairment                                           48

 

1    Eligible Impairment Types                                                     48

 

2    Assessment Methodology                                                                                                    49

 

3    Assessment Criteria for the Allocation of a Sport

      Class and the Designation of Sport Class Status                       52

 

Appendix Two                                                                      56

 

1    Non-Eligible Impairment Types for all Athletes                           56

 

 

2    Health Conditions that are not Underlying Health

      Conditions for all Athletes                                                           56

 

Part One: General Provisions

 

1          Scope and Application

 

Adoption

 

1 .1        These Classification Rules and Regulations are referred to throughout this document as the Classification Rules’. They have been prepared by World Para Snowboard to implement the requirements of the 2015 IPC Athlete Classification Code and International Standards.

 

1.2         The Classification Rules have been adopted by World Para Snowboard on 1 August 2017.

 

1.3         These Classification Rules refer to a number of Appendices. These Appendices form an integral part of the Classification Rules.

 

1.4         These Classification Rules form part of the World Para Snowboard Rules and Regulations.

 

1.5         The Classification Rules are supplemented by a number of Classification forms that have been prepared to assist Athlete Evaluation. These forms are available from World Para Snowboard, and can be amended by World Para Snowboard from time to time.

 

Classification

 

1.6         Classification is undertaken to:

 

a)               define who is eligible to compete in Para sport and consequently who has the opportunity to reach the goal of becoming a Paralympic Athlete; and

 

b)      group Athletes into Sport Classes which aim to ensure that the impact of Impairment is minimised and sporting excellence determines which Athlete or team is ultimately victorious.

 

Application

 

1.7         These Classification Rules apply to all Athletes and Athlete Support Personnel who are registered and/or licensed with World Para Snowboard, and/or participate in any Events or Competitions organised, authorised or recognised by World Para Snowboard.

 

1.8         These Classification Rules must be read and applied in conjunction with all other applicable rules of World Para Snowboard, including but not limited to the sport technical rules of World Para Snowboard. In the event of any conflict between these Classification Rules and any other rules, the Classification Rules shall take precedence.

 

International Classification

 

1.9         World Para Snowboard will only permit an Athlete to compete in an International Competition if that Athlete has been allocated a Sport Class (other than Sport Class Not Eligible) and designated with a Sport Class Status in accordance with these Classification Rules.

 

1.10       World Para Snowboard will provide opportunities for Athletes to be allocated a Sport Class and designated with a Sport Class Status in accordance with these Classification Rules at Recognised Competitions (or other such locations as defined by World Para Snowboard). World Para Snowboard will advise Athletes, National Bodies and National Paralympic Committees in advance as to such Recognised Competitions (or other such locations).

 

Interpretation and Relationship to Code

 

1.11       References to an ‘Article’ mean an Article of these Classification Rules, references to an appendix’ mean an Appendix to these Classification Rules, and Capitalised terms used in these Classification Rules have the meaning given to them in the Glossary to these Classification Rules.

 

1.12       References to a ‘sport’ in these Classification Rules refer to both a sport and an individual discipline within Para Snowboard (e.g. Banked Slalom).

 

1.13       The Appendices to these Classification Rules are part of these Classification Rules both of which may be amended, supplemented and/or replaced by the World Para Snowboard from time to time.

 

1.14       Headings used in these Classification Rules are used for convenience only and have no meaning that is separate from the Article or Articles to which they refer.

 

1.15       These Classification Rules are to be applied and interpreted as an independent text but in a manner that is consistent with the 2015 IPC Athlete Classification Code and the accompanying International Standards.

 


 

2          Roles and Responsibilities

 

2.1         It is the personal responsibility of Athletes, Athlete Support Personnel, and Classification Personnel to familiarise themselves with all the requirements of these Classification Rules.

 

Athlete Responsibilities

 

2.2         The roles and responsibilities of Athletes include to:

 

a)      be knowledgeable of and comply with all applicable policies, rules and processes established by these Classification Rules;

b)      participate in Athlete Evaluation in good faith;

c)      ensure when appropriate that adequate information related to Health Conditions and Eligible Impairments is provided and/or made available to World Para Snowboard;

d)      cooperate with any investigations concerning violations of these Classification Rules; and

e)      actively participate  in  the  process of education and awareness, and Classification research, through exchanging personal experiences and expertise.

 

Athlete Support Personnel Responsibilities

 

2.3         The roles and responsibilities of Athlete Support Personnel include to:

 

a)      be knowledgeable of and comply with all applicable policies, rules and processes established by these Classification Rules;

b)      use their influence on Athlete values and behaviour to foster a positive and collaborative Classification attitude and communication;

c)      assist in the development, management and implementation of Classification Systems; and

d)      cooperate with any investigations concerning violations of these Classification Rules.

 

Classification Personnel Responsibilities

 

2.4         The roles and responsibilities of Classification Personnel include to:

 

a)               have a complete working knowledge of all applicable policies, rules and processes established by these Classification Rules;

b)      use their influence to foster a positive and collaborative Classification attitude and communication;

c)      assist in the development, management and implementation of Classification Systems, including participation in education and research; and

d)      cooperate with any investigations concerning violations of these Classification Rules.


 

Part Two: Classification Personnel

 

3          Classification Personnel

 

3.1         Classification Personnel are fundamental to the effective implementation of these Classification Rules. World Para Snowboard will appoint a number of Classification Personnel, each of whom will have a key role in the organisation, implementation and administration of Classification for the World Para Snowboard.

 

Head of Classification

 

3.2         World Para Snowboard must appoint a Head of Classification. The Head of Classification is a person responsible for the direction, administration, co-ordination and implementation of Classification matters for World Para Snowboard.

 

3.3         If a Head of Classification cannot be appointed, World Para Snowboard may appoint another  person, or group of persons collectively (provided such person or group of persons agrees to comply with the Classifier Code of Conduct), to act as the Head of Classification.

 

3.4         The Head of Classification is not required to be a certified Classifier.

 

3.5         The Head of Classification may delegate specific responsibilities and/or the transfer specific tasks to designated Classifiers, or other persons authorised by World Para Snowboard.

 

3.6         Nothing in these Classification Rules prevents the Head of Classification (if certified as a Classifier) from also being appointed as a Classifier and/or Chief Classifier.

 

Classifiers

 

3.7         A Classifier is a person authorised as an official and certified by the World Para Snowboard to conduct some or all components of Athlete Evaluation as a member of a Classification Panel.

 

Chief Classifiers

 

3.8         A Chief Classifier is a Classifier appointed to direct, administer, co-ordinate and implement Classification matters for a specific Competition or at such other location as defined by World Para Snowboard. In particular, a Chief Classifier may be required by World Para Snowboard to do the following:

 

3.8.1      identify those Athletes who will be required to attend an Evaluation Session;

 

3.8.2      supervise Classifiers to ensure that the these Classification Rules are properly applied during Classification;

 

3.8.3      manage Protests in consultation with World Para Snowboard; and

 

3.8.4      liaise with the relevant Competition organisers to ensure that all travel, accommodation and other logistics are arranged in order that Classifiers may carry out their duties at the Competition.

 

3.9         A Chief Classifier may delegate specific responsibilities and/or transfer specific tasks to other appropriately qualified Classifiers, or other appropriately qualified World Para Snowboard officers or representatives, and/or appropriately qualified persons in the local organising committee of a Competition.

 

Trainee Classifiers

 

3.10       A Trainee Classifier is a person who is in the process of formal training by World Para Snowboard.

 

3.11       World Para Snowboard may appoint Trainee Classifiers to participate in some or all components of Athlete Evaluation under the supervision of a Classification Panel, to develop Classifier Competencies.

 

4          Classifier Competencies, Training and Certification

 

4.1         A Classifier will be authorised to act as a Classifier if that Classifier has been certified by World Para Snowboard as having the relevant Classifier Competencies.

 

4.2         World Para Snowboard must provide training and education to Classifiers to ensure Classifiers obtain and/or maintain Classifier Competencies.

 

4.3         World Para Snowboard must specify and publish Classifier Competencies in a manner that is transparent and accessible. The Classifier Competencies must include that a Classifier has:

 

4.3.1      a thorough understanding of these Classification Rules;

 

4.3.2      an understanding of Para Snowboard, including an understanding of the technical rules of the sport;

 

4.3.3      an understanding of the Code and the International Standards; and

 

4.3.4      a professional qualification(s), level of experience, skills and/or competencies in order to act as a Classifier for World Para Snowboard. These include that Classifiers must be a certified health professional in a field relevant to the Eligible Impairment category which World Para Snowboard at its sole discretion deems acceptable, such as a physician or physiotherapist for Athletes with a Physical Impairment.

 

4.4         World Para Snowboard must establish a process of Classifier Certification by which Classifier Competencies are assessed. This process must include:

 

4.4.1      a process for the certification of Trainee Classifiers;

 

4.4.2      quality assessment for the period of certification;

 

4.4.3      a process for handling substandard performance, including options for remediation and/or withdrawal of certification; and

 

4.4.4      a process for Re-certification of Classifiers.

 

4.5         World Para Snowboard must specify Entry-Level Criteria applicable to persons who wish to become Trainee Classifiers. World Para Snowboard will provide Entry-Level Education to Trainee Classifiers.

 

4.6         World Para Snowboard must provide Continuing Education to Classifiers for the purposes of Certification and Re-certification.

 

4.7         World Para Snowboard may provide that a Classifier is subject to certain limitations, including (but not limited to):

 

4.7.1      a limitation on the Impairment type for which a Classifier is certified to act as a Classifier;

 

4.7.2      a limitation on the components of Athlete Evaluation that a Classifier is certified to conduct;

 

4.7.3      a limitation on the level of Competition or Event that a Classifier is authorised to act as a Classifier;

 

4.7.4      the maximum time that a Classifier Certification is valid;

 

4.7.5      that Classifier Certification is subject to review within a specific time frame by reference to the Classifier Competencies;

 

4.7.6      that a Classifier may lose Classifier Certification if World Para Snowboard is not satisfied that the Classifier possesses the required Classifier Competencies; and/or

 

4.7.7      that a Classifier may regain Classifier Certification if World Para Snowboard is satisfied that the Classifier possesses the required Classifier Competencies.  

 

5          Classifier Code of Conduct

 

5.1         The integrity of Classification in World Para Snowboard depends on the conduct of Classification Personnel. World Para Snowboard has therefore adopted a set of professional conduct standards referred to as the ‘Classifier Code of Conduct’.

 

5.2         All Classification Personnel must comply with the Classifier Code of Conduct.

 

5.3         Any person who believes that any Classification Personnel may have acted in a manner that contravenes the Classifier Code of Conduct must report this to World Para Snowboard.

 

5.4         If World Para Snowboard receives such a report it will investigate the report and, if appropriate, take disciplinary measures.

 

5.5         World Para Snowboard has discretion to determine whether or not a Classifier has an actual, perceived and/or potential conflict of interest.

 

Part Three: Athlete Evaluation

 

6           General Provisions

 

6.1         World Para Snowboard has specified in these Classification Rules the process, assessment criteria and methodology whereby Athletes will be allocated a Sport Class and designated a Sport Class Status. This process is referred to as Athlete Evaluation.

 

6.2         Athlete Evaluation encompasses a number of steps and these Classification Rules therefore include provisions regarding:

 

6.2.1      an assessment of whether or not an Athlete has an Eligible Impairment for the sport;

 

6.2.2      an assessment of whether an Athlete complies with Minimum Impairment Criteria for the sport; and

 

6.2.3      the allocation of a Sport Class (and designation of a Sport Class Status) depending on the extent to which an Athlete is able to execute the specific tasks and activities fundamental to the sport. 

 

7          Eligible Impairment

 

7.1         Any Athlete wishing to compete in a sport governed by World Para Snowboard must have an Eligible Impairment and that Eligible Impairment must be Permanent.

 

7.2         Appendix Appendix One of these Classification Rules specify the Eligible Impairment(s) an Athlete must have in order to compete in a sport governed by World Para Snowboard.

 

7.3         Any Impairment that is not listed as an Eligible Impairment in Appendix Appendix One is referred to as a Non-Eligible Impairment. Appendix includes examples of Non-Eligible Impairments.

 

Assessment of Eligible Impairment

 

7.4         World Para Snowboard must determine if an Athlete has an Eligible Impairment.

 

7.4.1      In order to be satisfied that an Athlete has an Eligible Impairment, World Para Snowboard may require any Athlete to demonstrate that he or she has an Underlying Health Condition. Appendix lists examples of Health Conditions that are not Underlying Health Conditions.

 

7.4.2      The means by which World Para Snowboard determines that an individual Athlete has an Eligible Impairment is at the sole discretion of World Para Snowboard. World Para Snowboard may consider that an Athlete’s Eligible Impairment is sufficiently obvious and therefore not require evidence that demonstrates the Athlete’s Eligible Impairment.

 

7.4.3      If in the course of determining if an Athlete has an Eligible Impairment World Para Snowboard becomes aware that the Athlete has a Health Condition, and believes that the impact of that Health Condition may be that it is unsafe for that Athlete to compete or there is a risk to the health of the Athlete (or other Athletes) if that Athlete competes, it may designate the Athlete as Classification Not Completed (CNC) in accordance with Article 10 of these Classification Rules. In such instances World Para Snowboard will explain the basis of its designation to the relevant National Body and/or National Paralympic Committee.

 

7.5         An Athlete must  supply World Para Snowboard with Diagnostic Information that must be provided as follows:

 

7.5.1      The relevant National Body and/or National Paralympic Committee must submit a Medical Diagnostics Form to World Para Snowboard, upon completing the registration of an Athlete.

 

7.5.2      The Medical Diagnostics Form must be completed in English and dated and signed by a certified medical doctor.

 

7.5.3      The Medical Diagnostic Form must be submitted with supportive Diagnostic Information if required by World Para Snowboard.

 

7.6         World Para Snowboard may require an Athlete to re-submit the Medical Diagnostics Form (with necessary supportive Diagnostic Information) if the World Para Snowboard at its sole discretion considers the Medical Diagnostic Form and/or the Diagnostic Information to be incomplete or inconsistent.

 

7.7         If World Para Snowboard requires an Athlete to provide Diagnostic Information it may consider the Diagnostic Information itself, and/or may appoint an Eligibility Assessment Committee to do so.

 

7.8         The process by which an Eligibility Assessment Committee is formed and considers Diagnostic Information is as follows:

 

7.8.1      The Head of Classification will notify the relevant National Body or National Paralympic Committee that Diagnostic Information must be provided on behalf of the Athlete. The Head of Classification will explain what Diagnostic Information is required, and the purposes for which it is required.

 

7.8.2      The Head of Classification will set timelines for the production of Diagnostic Information.

 

7.8.3      The Head of Classification will appoint an Eligibility Assessment Committee.

The Eligibility Assessment Committee must, if practicable, be comprised of the Head of Classification and at least two other experts with appropriate medical qualifications. All members of the Eligibility Assessment Committee must sign confidentiality undertakings.

 

7.8.4      If the Head of Classification believes that he or she does not hold the necessary competencies to assess the Diagnostic Information, he or she will not participate in the review of the Diagnostic Information, but will assist the Eligibility Assessment Committee.

 

7.8.5      Wherever possible all references to the individual Athlete and the source(s) of the Diagnostic Information should be withheld from the Eligibility Assessment Committee. Each member of the Eligibility Assessment Committee will review the Diagnostic Information and decide whether such information establishes the existence of an Eligible Impairment.

 

7.8.6      If the Eligibility Assessment Committee concludes that the Athlete has an Eligible Impairment the Athlete will be permitted to complete Athlete Evaluation with a Classification Panel.

 

7.8.7      If the Eligibility Assessment Committee is not satisfied that the Athlete has an Eligible Impairment the Head of Classification will provide a decision to this effect in writing to the relevant National Body or National Paralympic Committee. The National Body or National Paralympic Committee will be given an opportunity to comment on the decision and may provide further Diagnostic Information to the Eligibility Assessment Committee for review. If the decision is subsequently revised, the Head of Classification will inform the National Body or National Paralympic Committee.

 

7.8.8      If the decision is not changed, the Head of Classification will issue a final decision letter to the National Body or National Paralympic Committee and the Athlete will be allocated Sport Class Not Eligible (NE) in accordance with the provisions of Article 18.3 of these Classification Rules.

 

7.8.9      The Eligibility Assessment Committee may make its decisions by a majority. If the Head of Classification is part of the Eligibility Assessment Committee, he or she may veto any decision if he or she does not agree that the Diagnostic Information supports the conclusion that the Athlete has an Eligible Impairment.

7.9         World Para Snowboard may delegate one or more of the functions described above to a Classification Panel.  

 

8          Minimum Impairment Criteria

 

8.1         An Athlete who wishes to compete in a sport must have an Eligible Impairment that complies with the relevant Minimum Impairment Criteria for that sport.

 

8.2         World Para Snowboard has set Minimum Impairment Criteria to ensure that an Athlete’s Eligible Impairment affects the extent to which an Athlete is able to execute the specific tasks and activities fundamental to the sport.

 

8.3         Appendix Appendix One of these Classification Rules specify the Minimum Impairment Criteria applicable to each sport and the process by which an Athlete’s compliance with Minimum Impairment Criteria is to be assessed by a Classification Panel as part of an Evaluation Session.

 

8.4         Any Athlete who does not comply with the Minimum Impairment Criteria for a sport must be allocated Sport Class Not Eligible (NE) for that sport.

 

8.5         A Classification Panel must assess whether or not an Athlete complies with Minimum Impairment Criteria. This will take place as part of an Evaluation Session. Prior to participating in an Evaluation Session, an Athlete must first satisfy the World Para Snowboard that he or she has an Eligible Impairment.

 

8.6         In relation to the use of Adaptive Equipment, World Para Snowboard has set Minimum Impairment Criteria as follows:

 

8.6.1      for Eligible Impairments other than Vision Impairment, Minimum Impairment Criteria must not consider the extent to which the use of Adaptive Equipment might affect how the Athlete is able to execute the specific tasks and activities fundamental to the sport;

 

9          Sport Class

 

9.1         A Sport Class is a category defined by World Para Snowboard in these Classification Rules, in which Athletes are grouped by reference to the impact of an Eligible Impairment on their ability to execute the specific tasks and activities fundamental to a sport.

 

9.1.1      An Athlete who does not have an Eligible Impairment or does not comply with the Minimum Impairment Criteria for a sport must be allocated Sport Class Not Eligible (NE) for that sport in accordance with the provisions of Article 18 of these Classification Rules.

 

9.1.2      An Athlete who complies with the Minimum Impairment Criteria for a sport must be allocated a Sport Class (subject to the provisions in these Classification Rules concerning Failure to Attend Athlete Evaluation and Suspension of Athlete Evaluation).

 

9.1.3      Except for the allocation of Sport Class Not Eligible (NE) by World Para Snowboard (in accordance with Article 18.1), the allocation of a Sport Class must be based solely on an evaluation by a Classification Panel of the extent to which the Athlete’s Eligible Impairment affects the specific tasks and activities fundamental to sport. This evaluation must take place in a controlled noncompetitive environment, which allows for the repeated observation of key tasks and activities.

 

9.2         Appendix Appendix One of these Classification Rules specifies the assessment methodology and assessment criteria for the allocation of a Sport Class and the designation of Sport Class Status.

 

10        Classification Not Completed

 

10.1       If at any stage of Athlete Evaluation World Para Snowboard or a Classification Panel is unable to allocate a Sport Class to an Athlete, the Head of Classification or the relevant Chief Classifier may designate that Athlete as Classification Not Completed (CNC).

 

10.2       The designation Classification Not Completed (CNC) is not a Sport Class and is not subject to the provisions in these Classification Rules concerning Protests. The designation Classification Not Completed (CNC) will however be recorded for the purpose of the World Para Snowboard Classification Master List.

 

10.3       An Athlete who is designated as Classification Not Completed (CNC) may not compete in the sport of World Para Snowboard. See Article 30 for remediation.


 

Part Four: Athlete Evaluation and the Classification Panel

 

11        The Classification Panel

 

11.1       A Classification Panel is a group of Classifiers appointed by World Para Snowboard to conduct some or all of the components of Athlete Evaluation including as part of an Evaluation Session.

 

General Provisions

 

11.2       A Classification Panel must be comprised of at least of two certified Classifiers. In exceptional circumstances a Chief Classifier may provide that a Classification Panel comprise only one Classifier, subject to that Classifier holding a valid medical qualification.

11.3       A Trainee Classifier may be part of a Classification Panel in addition to the required number of certified Classifiers, and may participate in Athlete Evaluation

 

12        Classification Panel Responsibilities

 

12.1       A Classification Panel is responsible for conducting an Evaluation Session. As part of the Evaluation Session the Classification Panel must:

 

12.1.1    assess whether an Athlete complies with Minimum Impairment Criteria for the sport;

 

12.1.2    assess the extent to which an Athlete is able to execute the specific tasks and activities fundamental to the sport; and

 

12.1.3    conduct (if required) Observation in Competition.

 

12.2       Following the Evaluation Session the Classification Panel must allocate a Sport Class and designate a Sport Class Status, or designate Classification Not Completed (CNC).

 

12.3       Prior to the Evaluation Session, the assessment as to whether an Athlete has an Eligible Impairment must be undertaken by World Para Snowboard, unless World Para Snowboard requests this to be undertaken by a Classification Panel.

 

12.4       The Evaluation Session must take place in a controlled non-competitive environment that allows for the repeated observation of key tasks and activities.

 

12.4.1    Although other factors such as low fitness level, poor technical proficiency and aging may also affect the fundamental tasks and activities of the sport, the allocation of Sport Class must not be affected by these factors.

 

12.5       An Athlete who has a Non-Eligible Impairment and an Eligible Impairment may be evaluated by a Classification Panel on the basis of the Eligible Impairment, provided the Non-Eligible Impairment does not affect the Classification Panel’s ability to allocate a Sport Class.

 

12.6       The Sport Class allocated to the Athlete will be in accordance with the processes specified in Appendix Appendix One.  

 

13        Evaluation Sessions

 

13.1       This Article applies to all Evaluation Sessions.

 

1 3.2      The Athlete’s National Body or National Paralympic Committee is responsible for ensuring that Athletes comply with their duties in relation to the provisions in this Article.

 

13.3       In respect of Athletes:

 

133.1     Athletes have the right to be accompanied by a member of the Athlete’s National Body or National Paralympic Committee when attending an Evaluation Session. The Athlete must be accompanied if the Athlete is a minor or has an Intellectual Impairment.

 

1 3.3.2   The person chosen by the Athlete to accompany the Athlete at an Evaluation Session should be familiar with the Athlete’s Impairment and sport history.

 

13.3.3    The Athlete and accompanying person must acknowledge the terms of the Athlete Evaluation Agreement Form as specified by World Para Snowboard.

 

13.3.4    The Athlete must verify his or her identity to the satisfaction of the Classification Panel, by providing a document such as a passport, ID card, World Para Snowboard license card or event accreditation.

 

13.3.5    The Athlete must attend the Evaluation Session with any sports attire or equipment relevant to the sport for which the Athlete wishes to be allocated a Sport Class.

 

13.3.6    The Athlete must disclose the use of any medication and/or medical device/implant to the Classification Panel.

 

13.3.7    The Athlete must comply with all reasonable instructions given by a Classification Panel.

 

13.4       In respect of the Classification Panel:

 

1 3.4.1   The Classification Panel may request that an Athlete provide medical documentation relevant to the Athlete’s Eligible Impairment if the Classification Panel believes that this will be necessary in order for it to allocate a Sport Class.

 

13.4.2    The Classification Panel will conduct Evaluation Sessions in English unless otherwise stipulated by World Para Snowboard. If the Athlete requires an interpreter, a member of the Athlete’s National Body or National Paralympic Committee will be responsible for arranging for an interpreter. The interpreter is permitted to attend the Evaluation Session in addition to the person referred to in Article 13.3.1 above.

 

13.4.3    The Classification Panel may at any stage seek medical, technical or scientific opinion(s), with the agreement of the Head of Classification and/or a Chief Classifier if the Classification Panel feels that such opinion(s) is necessary in order to allocate a Sport Class.

 

13.4.4    In addition to any opinion(s) sought in accordance with Article 13.4.3, a Classification Panel may only have regard to evidence supplied to it by the relevant Athlete, National Body, National Paralympic Committee and World Para Snowboard (from any source) when allocating a Sport Class.

 

13.4.5    The Classification Panel may make, create or use video footage and/or other records to assist it when allocating a Sport Class. 

 

14        Observation in Competition

 

14.1       A Classification Panel may require that an Athlete undertake Observation in Competition Assessment before it allocates a final Sport Class and designates a Sport Class Status to that Athlete.

 

14.2       The methods by which Observation in Competition Assessment may be undertaken, and the matters to be observed, are set out in Appendix Appendix One.


 

14.3       If a Classification Panel requires an Athlete to complete Observation in Competition Assessment, the Athlete will be entered in the Competition with the Sport Class allocated by the Classification Panel after the conclusion of the initial components of the Evaluation Session.

 

14.4       An Athlete who is required to complete Observation in Competition Assessment will be designated with Tracking Code: Observation Assessment (OA). This replaces the Athlete’s Sport Class Status for the duration of Observation in Competition Assessment.

 

14.5       Observation in Competition Assessment must take place during First Appearance. In this regard:

 

14.5.1    First Appearance is the first time an Athlete competes in an Event during a Competition in a particular Sport Class.

 

14.5.2    First Appearance within a Sport Class applies to participation in all Events within the same Sport Class.

 

14.6       If an Athlete is:

 

a)      subject to a Protest following Observation in Competition; and

b)      the second Evaluation Session is conducted at that same Competition; and

c)      pursuant to the second Evaluation Session the Athlete is required to undergo Observation in Competition,

 

Observation in Competition must take place at the next opportunity within the Sport Class allocated to the Athlete by the Protest Panel with Tracking Code Observation Assessment (OA).

 

14.6.1    The Classification Panel must allocate a Sport Class and replace the athlete’s Tracking Code Observation Assessment (OA) by designating a Sport Class Status upon completion of First Appearance (or completion of any Observation in Competition conducted as part of a Protest). If changes to an Athlete’s Sport Class or Sport Class Status are made following Observation in Competition, the changes are effective immediately

 

14.7       The impact of an Athlete changing Sport Class after First Appearance on medals, records and results is detailed in the World Para Snowboard Rules and Regulations.

 

15        Sport Class Status

 

15.1       If a Classification Panel allocates a Sport Class to an Athlete, it must also designate a Sport Class Status. Sport Class Status indicates whether or not an Athlete will be required to undertake Athlete Evaluation in the future; and if the Athlete’s Sport Class may be subject to Protest.

 

15.2       The Sport Class Status designated to an Athlete by a Classification Panel at the conclusion of an Evaluation Session will be one of the following:

 

·               Confirmed (C)

·               Review (R)

·               Review with a Fixed Review Date (FRD)

 

Sport Class Status New

 

15.3       An Athlete is allocated Sport Class Status New (N) by World Para Snowboard prior to attending the Athlete’s first Evaluation Session. An Athlete with Sport Class Status New (N) must attend an Evaluation Session prior to competing at any International Competition, unless World Para Snowboard specifies otherwise.

 

Sport Class Status Confirmed

 

15.4       An Athlete will be designated with Sport Class Status Confirmed (C) if the Classification Panel is satisfied that both the Athlete’s Eligible Impairment and the Athlete’s ability to execute the specific tasks and activities fundamental to the sport are and will remain stable.

 

15.4.1    An Athlete with Sport Class Status Confirmed (C) is not required to undergo any further Athlete Evaluation (save pursuant to the provisions in these Classification Rules concerning Protests (Article 19), Medical Review (Article 31) and changes to Sport Class criteria (Article 15.7)).

 

15.4.2    A Classification Panel that consists of only one Classifier may not designate an Athlete with Sport Class Status Confirmed (C) but must designate the Athlete with Sport Class Status Review (R).

 

Sport Class Status Review

 

15.5       An Athlete will be designated Sport Class Status Review (R) if the Classification Panel believes that further Evaluation Sessions will be required.

 

15.5.1    A Classification Panel may base its belief that further Evaluation Sessions will be required based on a number of factors, including but not limited to situations where the Athlete has only recently entered Competitions sanctioned or recognised by World Para Snowboard; has a fluctuating and/or progressive Impairment/Impairments that is/are permanent but not stable; and/or has not yet reached full muscular skeletal or sports maturity.

 

15.5.2    An Athlete with Sport Class Status Review (R) must complete Athlete Evaluation prior to competing at any subsequent International Competition, unless World Para Snowboard specifies otherwise.

 

Sport Class Status Review with Fixed Review Date

 

15.6       An Athlete may be designated Sport Class Status Review with a Fixed Review Date (FRD) if the Classification Panel believes that further Athlete Evaluation will be required but will not be necessary before a set date, being the Fixed Review Date.

 

15.6.1    An Athlete with Sport Class Status Review with a Fixed Review Date (FRD) will be required to attend an Evaluation Session at the first opportunity after the relevant Fixed Review Date. For example, an Athlete with Sport Class Status Review with a Fixed Review Date of 2018 will be required to attend an Evaluation Session at the first opportunity after 1 July 2018.

 

15.6.2    An Athlete who has been allocated Sport Class Status Review with a Fixed Review Date (FRD) may not attend an Evaluation Session prior to the relevant Fixed Review Date save pursuant to a Medical Review Request and/or Protest.

 

15.6.3    A Classification Panel that consists of only one Classifier may not designate an Athlete with Sport Class Status Review with a Fixed Review Date (FRD) but must designate the Athlete with Sport Class Status Review (R).

 

Changes to Sport Class Criteria

 

15.7       If World Para Snowboard changes any Sport Class criteria and/ or assessment methods defined in the Appendices to these Rules, then:

 

15.7.1    World Para Snowboard may re-assign any Athlete who holds Sport Class Status Confirmed (C) with Sport Class Status Review (R) and require that the Athlete attend an Evaluation Session at the earliest available opportunity; or

 

15.7.2    World Para Snowboard may remove the Fixed Review Date for any Athlete and require that the Athlete attend an Evaluation Session at the earliest available opportunity; and

 

15.7.3    in both instances the relevant National Body or National Paralympic Committee shall be informed as soon as is practicable.

 

16        Multiple Sport Classes

 

16.1       This Article applies to Athletes who are potentially eligible to be allocated more than one Sport Class.

 

Changing Sport Class

 

16.2       An Athlete who has a Physical Impairment that allows him or her to be allocated more than one Sport Class must not be allocated or hold more than one Sport Class at the same time, and may request to change his or her preferred Sport Class:

 

a)      at the end of the season when the Athlete’s first Evaluation Session was completed; or

 

b)               after the close of the Paralympic Winter Games, and before the start of the next season thereafter.

 

16.3       A request to change a preferred Sport Class must be made to World Para Snowboard by the Athlete‘s National Body or National Paralympic Committee. The application must be submitted to World Para Snowboard in accordance with the time frame identified under Article 16.2.

 

16.4       Nothing in this Article 0 precludes an Athlete from making a Medical Review Request at any time in respect of any Sport Class.  

 

17        Notification

 

17.1       The outcome of Athlete Evaluation must be notified to the Athlete and/or National Body or National Paralympic Committee and published as soon as practically possible after completion of Athlete Evaluation.

 

17.2       World Para Snowboard must publish the outcome of Athlete Evaluation at the Competition following Athlete Evaluation, and the outcomes must be made available post Competition via the Classification Master List at World Para Snowboard website.


 

Part Five: Sport Class Not Eligible

 

18        Sport Class Not Eligible

 

General Provisions

 

18.1       If World Para Snowboard determines that an Athlete:

 

18.1.1    has an Impairment that is not an Eligible Impairment; or

 

18.1.2    does not have an Underlying Health Condition,

 

World Para Snowboard must allocate that Athlete Sport Class Not Eligible (NE).

 

18.2       If a Classification Panel determines that an Athlete who has an Eligible Impairment does not comply with Minimum Impairment Criteria for a sport that Athlete must be allocated Sport Class Not Eligible (NE) for that sport.

 

Absence of Eligible Impairment

 

18.3       If World Para Snowboard determines that an Athlete does not have an Eligible Impairment, that Athlete:

 

18.3.1    will not be permitted to attend an Evaluation Session; and

 

18.3.2    will be allocated with Sport Class Not Eligible (NE) and designated with Sport Class Status Confirmed (C) by World Para Snowboard.

 

18.4       If another International Sport Federation has allocated an Athlete with Sport Class Not Eligible (NE) because the Athlete does not have an Eligible Impairment World Para Snowboard may likewise do so without the need for the process detailed in Article 7 of these Classification Rules.

 

18.5       An Athlete who is allocated Sport Class Not Eligible (NE) by World Para Snowboard or a Classification Panel (if delegated by World Para Snowboard) because that Athlete has

 

18.5.1    an Impairment that is not an Eligible Impairment; or

 

18.5.2    a Health Condition that is not an Underlying Health Condition;

 

has no right to request such determination be reviewed by a second Classification Panel and will not be permitted to participate in any sport.

 

Absence of Compliance with Minimum Impairment Criteria

 

18.6       A second Classification Panel must review by way of a second Evaluation Session any Athlete who is allocated Sport Class Not Eligible (NE) on the basis that a Classification Panel determines that the Athlete does not comply with Minimum Impairment Criteria. This must take place as soon as is practicable.

 

18.6.1    Pending the second Evaluation Session the Athlete will be allocated Sport Class Not Eligible (NE) and designated Sport Class Status Review (R). The Athlete will not be permitted to compete before such re-assessment.

 

18.6.2    If the second Classification Panel determines the Athlete does not comply with Minimum Impairment Criteria (or if the Athlete declines to participate in a second Evaluation Session at the time set by the Chief Classifier); Sport Class Not Eligible (NE) will be allocated and the Athlete designated with Sport Class Status Confirmed (C).

 

18.7       If an Athlete makes (or is subject to) a Protest on a previously allocated Sport Class other than Not Eligible (NE) and is allocated Sport Class Not Eligible (NE) by a Protest Panel, the Athlete must be provided with a further and final Evaluation Session which will review the decision to allocate Sport Class Not Eligible (NE) made by the Protest Panel.

 

18.8       If a Classification Panel allocates Sport Class Not Eligible (NE) on the basis that it has determined that an Athlete does not comply with Minimum Impairment Criteria for a sport the Athlete may be eligible to compete in another sport, subject to Athlete Evaluation for that sport.

 

18.9       If an Athlete is allocated Sport Class Not Eligible (NE), this does not question the presence of a genuine Impairment. It is only a ruling on the eligibility of the Athlete to compete in the sport of World Para Snowboard.

 

Part Six: Protests

 

Protests

 

19        Scope of a Protest

 

19.1       A Protest may only be made in respect of an Athlete’s Sport Class. A Protest may not be made in respect of an Athlete’s Sport Class Status.

 

19.2       A Protest may not be made in respect of an Athlete who has been allocated Sport Class Not Eligible (NE).  

 

20        Parties Permitted to Make a Protest

 

A Protest may only be made by one of the following bodies:

 

20.1       a National Body (see Articles 21-22); or

 

20.2       a National Paralympic Committee (see Articles 21-22); or

 

20.3       World Para Snowboard (see Articles 23-24).  

 

21        National Protests

 

21.1       A National Body or a National Paralympic Committee may only make a Protest in respect of an Athlete under its jurisdiction at a Competition or venue set aside for Athlete Evaluation.

 

21.2       If the outcome of Athlete Evaluation is published during a Competition (pursuant to Article 17 of these Classification Rules) a National Protest must be submitted within one (1) hour of that outcome being published. If the outcome of Athlete Evaluation is published following Observation in Competition a National Protest must be submitted within fifteen (15) minutes of that outcome being published.

 

21.3       If an Athlete is required by a Classification Panel to undergo Observation in Competition Assessment, a National Body or a National Paralympic Committee may make a Protest before or after First Appearance takes place. If a Protest is made before First Appearance takes place the Athlete must not be permitted to compete until the Protest has been resolved.

 

22        National Protest Procedure

 

22.1       To submit a National Protest, a National Body or a National Paralympic Committee must show that the Protest is bona fide with supporting evidence and complete a Protest Form, that must be made available by World Para Snowboard at the Competition and via World Para Snowboard website, and must include the following:

 

22.1.1    the name and SDMS ID of the Protested Athlete;

 

22.1.2    the details of the Protested Decision and/or a copy of the Protested Decision;

 

22.1.3    an explanation as to why the Protest has been made and the basis on which the National Body or National Paralympic Committee believes that the Protested Decision is flawed;

 

22.1.4    reference to the specific rule(s) alleged to have been breached; and

 

22.1.5    the Protest Fee set of € 100

 

22.2       The Protest Documents must be submitted to the Chief Classifier of the relevant Competition within the timeframes specified by World Para Snowboard. Upon receipt of the Protest Documents the Chief Classifier must conduct a review of the Protest, in consultation with World Para Snowboard, of which there are two possible outcomes:

 

22.2.1    the Chief Classifier may dismiss the Protest if, in the discretion of the Chief Classifier, the Protest does not comply with the Protest requirements in this Article 22; or

 

22.2.2    The Chief Classifier may accept the Protest if, in the discretion of the Chief Classifier, the Protest complies with the Protest requirements in this Article 22.

 

22.3       If the Protest is dismissed the Chief Classifier must notify all relevant parties and provide a written explanation to the National Body or National Paralympic Committee as soon as practicable. The Protest Fee will be forfeited.

 

22.4       If the Protest is accepted:

 

22.4.1    The Protested Athlete’s Sport Class must remain unchanged pending the outcome of the Protest but the Protested Athlete’s Sport Class Status must unless the Protested Athlete’s Sport Class Status is already Review (R); immediately be changed to Review (R)

 

22.4.2    the Chief Classifier must appoint a Protest Panel to conduct a new Evaluation Session as soon as possible, which must be either at the Competition the Protest was made or at the next Competition; and

 

22.4.3    World Para Snowboard must notify all relevant parties of the time and date the new Evaluation Session is to be conducted by the Protest Panel. 

 

23        World Para Snowboard Protests

 

23.1       World Para Snowboard may, in its discretion, make a Protest at any time in respect of an Athlete under its jurisdiction if:

 

23.1.1    it considers an Athlete may have been allocated an incorrect Sport Class; or

 

23.1.2    a National Body or National Paralympic Committee makes a documented request to World Para Snowboard. The assessment of the validity of the request is at the sole discretion of World Para Snowboard 

 

24        World Para Snowboard Protest Procedure

 

24.1       If World Para Snowboard decides to make a Protest, the Head of Classification must advise the relevant National Body or National Paralympic Committee of the Protest at the earliest possible opportunity.

 

24.2       The Head of Classification must provide the relevant National Body or National Paralympic Committee with a written explanation as to why the Protest has been made and the basis on which the Head of Classification considers it is justified.

 

24.3       If World Para Snowboard makes a Protest:

 

24.3.1    The Protested Athlete’s Sport Class must remain unchanged pending the outcome of the Protest;

 

24.3.2    The Protested Athlete’s Sport Class Status must immediately be changed to Review (R) unless the Protested Athlete’s Sport Class Status is already Review (R); and

 

24.3.3    A protest Panel must be appointed to resolve the Protest as soon as is reasonably possible. 

 

25 Protest Panel

 

25.1       A Chief Classifier may fulfil one or more of the Head of Classification’s obligations in this Article 25 if authorised to do so by the Head of Classification.

 

25.2       A Protest Panel must be appointed by the Head of Classification in a manner consistent with the provisions for appointing a Classification Panel in these Classification Rules.

 

25.3       A Protest Panel must not include any person who was a member of the Classification Panel that:

 

25.3.1    made the Protested Decision; or

 

25.3.2    conducted any component of Athlete Evaluation in respect of the Protested Athlete within a period of 12 months prior to the date of the Protested Decision, unless otherwise agreed by the National Body or National Paralympic Committee (whichever is relevant) and World Para Snowboard.

 

25.4       The Head of Classification must notify all relevant parties of the time and date for the Evaluation Session that must be conducted by the Protest Panel.

 

25.5       The Protest Panel must conduct the new Evaluation Session in accordance with these Classification Rules. The Protest Panel may refer to the Protest Documents when conducting the new Evaluation Session.

 

25.6       The Protest Panel must allocate a Sport Class and designate a Sport Class Status. All relevant parties must be notified of the Protest Panel’s decision in a manner consistent with the provisions for notification in these Classification Rules.

 

25.7       The decision of a Protest Panel in relation to both a National Protest and a World Para Snowboard Protest is final. A National Body, National Paralympic Committee or World Para Snowboard may not make another Protest at the relevant Competition.

 

25.8       If the decision of the Protest Panel results in the Sport Class of the Athlete being changed, the Protest Fee will be refunded to the National Body or National Paralympic Committee (whichever is relevant). 

 

26        Provisions Where No Protest Panel is Available

 

26.1       If a Protest is made at a Competition but there is no opportunity for the Protest to be resolved at that Competition:

 

26.1.1    the Protested Athlete must be permitted to compete in the Sport Class that is the subject of the Protest with Sport Class Status Review (R), pending the resolution of the Protest; and

 

26.1.2    all reasonable steps must be taken to ensure that the Protest is resolved at the earliest opportunity. 

 

27        Special Provisions

 

27.1       World Para Snowboard may make arrangements (subject to the approval of the IPC) for some or all of the components of Athlete Evaluation to be carried out at a place and at a time away from a Competition. If so, World Para Snowboard must also implement Protest provisions to enable Protests to take place in respect of any Evaluation Sessions carried out away from a Competition. 

 

Application during Major Competitions

 

28        Ad Hoc Provisions Relating to Protests

 

28.1       The IPC and/or World Para Snowboard may issue special ad hoc provisions to operate during the Paralympic Games or other Competitions.

 

Part Seven: Misconduct during Evaluation Session

 

29        Failure to Attend Evaluation Session

 

29.1       An Athlete is personally responsible for attending an Evaluation Session.

 

29.2       An Athlete’s National Body or National Paralympic Committee must take reasonable steps to ensure that the Athlete attends an Evaluation Session.

 

29.3       If an Athlete fails to attend an Evaluation Session, the Classification Panel will report the failure to the Chief Classifier. The Chief Classifier may, if satisfied that a reasonable explanation exists for the failure to attend and subject to the practicalities at a Competition, specify a revised date and time for the Athlete to attend a further Evaluation Session before the Classification Panel.

 

29.4       If the Athlete is unable to provide a reasonable explanation for non-attendance, or if the Athlete fails to attend an Evaluation Session on a second occasion, no Sport Class will be allocated and the Athlete will not be permitted to compete at the relevant Competition.

 

30        Suspension of Evaluation Session

 

30.1       A Classification Panel, in consultation with the Chief Classifier, may suspend an Evaluation Session if it cannot allocate a Sport Class to the Athlete, including but not limited to, in one or more of the following circumstances:

 

30.1.1    a failure on the part of the Athlete to comply with any part of these Classification Rules;

 

30.1.2    a failure on the part of the Athlete to provide any medical information that is reasonably required by the Classification Panel;

 

30.1.3    the Classification Panel believes that the use (or non-use) of any medication and/or medical procedures/device/implant disclosed by the Athlete will affect the ability to conduct its determination in a fair manner;

 

30.1.4    the Athlete has a Health Condition that may limit or prohibit complying with requests by the Classification Panel during an Evaluation Session, which the Classification Panel considers will affect its ability to conduct the Evaluation Session in a fair manner;

 

30.1.5    the Athlete is unable to communicate effectively with the Classification Panel;

 

30.1.6    the Athlete refuses or is unable to comply with any reasonable instructions given by any Classification Personnel to such an extent that the Evaluation Session cannot be conducted in a fair manner; and/or

 

30.1.7    the Athlete’s representation of his or her abilities is inconsistent with any information available to the Classification Panel to such an extent that the Evaluation Session cannot be conducted in a fair manner.

 

30.2       If an Evaluation Session is suspended by a Classification Panel, the following steps must be taken:

 

30.2.1    an explanation for the suspension and details of the remedial action that is required on the part of the Athlete will be provided to the Athlete and/or the relevant National Body or National Paralympic Committee;

 

30.2.2    if the Athlete takes the remedial action to the satisfaction of the Chief Classifier or Head of Classification, the Evaluation Session will be resumed; and

 

30.2.3    if the Athlete fails to comply and does not take the remedial action within the timeframe specified, the Evaluation Session will be terminated, and the Athlete must be precluded from competing at any Competition until the determination is completed.

 

30.3       If an Evaluation Session is suspended by a Classification Panel, the Classification Panel may designate the Athlete as Classification Not Completed (CNC) in accordance with Article 10 of these Classification Rules.

 

30.4       A Suspension of an Evaluation Session may be subject to further investigation into any possible Intentional Misrepresentation.

 

Part Eight: Medical Review

 

31        Medical Review

 

31.1       This Article applies to any Athlete who has been allocated a Sport Class with Sport Class Status Confirmed (C) or Review with Fixed Review Date (FRD).

 

31.2       A Medical Review Request must be made if a change in the nature or degree of an Athlete’s Impairment changes the Athlete’s ability to execute the specific tasks and activities required by a sport in a manner that is clearly distinguishable from changes attributable to levels of training, fitness and proficiency.

 

31 3       A Medical Review Request must be made by the Athlete’s National Body or National Paralympic Committee (together with a €100 non-refundable fee and any supporting documentation). The Medical Review Request must explain how and to what extent the Athlete’s Impairment has changed and why it is believed that the Athlete’s ability to execute the specific tasks and activities required by a sport has changed.to execute the specific tasks and activities required by a sport has changed.

 

31.4       A Medical Review Request must be received by World Para Snowboard as soon as reasonably practicable.

 

31.5       The Head of Classification must decide whether or not the Medical Review Request is upheld as soon as is practicable following receipt of the Medical Review Request.

 

31.6       Any Athlete or Athlete Support Personnel who becomes aware of such changes outlined in Article 31.2 but fails to draw those to the attention of their National Body, National Paralympic Committee or World Para Snowboard may be investigated in respect of possible Intentional Misrepresentation.

 

31 .7      If a Medical Review Request is accepted, the Athlete’s Sport Class Status will be changed to Review (R) with immediate effect.

 

31 .8      If a Medical Review Request does not include sufficient evidence to explain how and to what extent the Athlete’s Impairment has changed and why it is believed that the Athlete’s ability to execute the specific tasks and activities required by a sport of Para Snowboard has changed, the Medical Review will not be accepted and the Athletes Sport Class Status will not be changed.

 


 

Part Nine: Intentional Misrepresentation

 

32        Intentional Misrepresentation

 

32.1       It is a disciplinary offence for an Athlete to intentionally misrepresent (either by act or omission) his or her skills and/or abilities and/or the degree or nature of Eligible Impairment during Athlete Evaluation and/or at any other point after the allocation of a Sport Class. This disciplinary offence is referred to as ‘Intentional Misrepresentation’.

 

32.2       It will be a disciplinary offence for any Athlete or Athlete Support Personnel to assist an Athlete in committing Intentional Misrepresentation or to be in any other way involved in any other type of complicity involving Intentional Misrepresentation, including but not limited to covering up Intentional Misrepresentation or disrupting any part of the Athlete Evaluation process.

 

32.3       In respect of any allegation relating to Intentional Misrepresentation a hearing will be convened by World Para Snowboard to determine whether the Athlete or Athlete Support Personnel has committed Intentional Misrepresentation.

 

32.4       The consequences to be applied to an Athlete or Athlete Support Personnel who is found to have been guilty of Intentional Misrepresentation and/or complicity involving Intentional Misrepresentation will be one or more of the following:

 

32.4.1    disqualification from all events at the Competition at which the Intentional Misrepresentation occurred, and any subsequent Competitions at which the Athlete competed;

 

32.4.2    being allocated with Sport Class Not Eligible (NE) and designated a Review with Fixed Review Date (FRD) Sport Class Status for a specified period of time ranging from 1 to 4 years;

 

32.4.3    suspension from participation in Competitions in all sport for a specified period of time ranging from 1 to 4 years; and

 

32.4.4    publication of their names and suspension period.

 

32.5       Any Athlete who is found to have been guilty of Intentional Misrepresentation and/or complicity involving Intentional Misrepresentation on more than one occasion will be allocated Sport Class Not Eligible with Fixed Review Date Status for a period of time from four years to life.

 

32.6       Any Athlete Support Personnel who is found to have been guilty of Intentional Misrepresentation and/or complicity involving Intentional Misrepresentation on more than one occasion will be suspended from participation in any Competition for a period of time from four years to life.

 

32.7       If another International Sports Federation brings disciplinary proceedings against an Athlete or Athlete Support Personnel in respect of Intentional Misrepresentation which results in consequences being imposed on that Athlete or Athlete Support Personnel, those consequences will be recognised, respected and enforced by World Para Snowboard.

 

32.8       Any consequences to be applied to teams, which include an Athlete or Athlete Support Personnel who is found to have been guilty of Intentional Misrepresentation and/or complicity involving Intentional Misrepresentation, will be at the discretion of World Para Snowboard.

 

32.9       Any disciplinary action taken by World Para Snowboard pursuant these Classification Rules must be resolved in accordance with the applicable Board of Appeal of Classification Bylaws.

 

Part Ten: Use of Athlete Information

 

33        Classification Data

 

33.1       World Para Snowboard may only Process Classification Data if such Classification Data is considered necessary to conduct Classification.

 

33.2       All Classification Data Processed by World Para Snowboard must be accurate, complete and kept up-to-date. 

 

34          Consent and Processing

 

34.1       Subject to Article 34.3, World Para Snowboard may only Process Classification Data with the consent of the Athlete to whom that Classification Data relates.

 

34.2       If an Athlete cannot provide consent (for example because the Athlete is under age) the legal representative, guardian or other designated representative of that Athlete must give consent on their behalf.

 

34.3       World Para Snowboard may only Process Classification Data without consent of the relevant Athlete if permitted to do so in accordance with National Laws. 

 

35        Classification Research

 

35.1       World Para Snowboard may request that an Athlete provide it with Personal Information for Research Purposes.

 

35.2       The use by World Para Snowboard of Personal Information for Research Purposes must be consistent with these Classification Rules and all applicable ethical use requirements.

 

35.3       Personal Information that has been provided by an Athlete to World Para Snowboard solely and exclusively for Research Purposes must not be used for any other purpose.

 

35.4       World Para Snowboard may only use Classification Data for Research Purposes with the express consent of the relevant Athlete. If World Para Snowboard wishes to publish any Personal Information provided by an Athlete for Research Purposes, it must obtain consent to do so from that Athlete prior to any publication. This restriction does not apply if the publication is anonymised so that it does not identify any Athlete(s) who consented to the use of their Personal Information.

 

36        Notification to Athletes

 

36.1       World Para Snowboard must notify an Athlete who provides Classification Data as to:

 

36.1.1    that fact that World Para Snowboard is collecting the Classification Data; and

 

36.1.2    the purpose for the collection of the Classification Data; and

 

36.1.3    the duration that the Classification Data will be retained.  

 

37  Classification Data Security

 

37.1       World Para Snowboard must:

 

37.1.1    protect Classification Data by applying appropriate security safeguards, including physical, organisational, technical and other measures to prevent the loss, theft or unauthorised access, destruction, use, modification or disclosure of Classification Data; and

 

37.1.2    take reasonable steps to ensure that  any other party provided with Classification Data uses that Classification Data in a manner consistent with these Classification Rules. 

 

38        Disclosures of Classification Data

 

38.1       World Para Snowboard must not disclose Classification Data to other Classification Organisations except where such disclosure is related to Classification conducted by another Classification Organisation and/or the disclosure is consistent with applicable National Laws.

 

38.2       World Para Snowboard may disclose Classification Data to other parties only if such disclosure is in accordance with these Classification Rules and permitted by National Laws. 

 

39        Retaining Classification Data

 

39.1       World Para Snowboard must ensure that Classification Data is only retained for as long as it is needed for the purpose it was collected. If Classification Data is no longer necessary for Classification purposes, it must be deleted, destroyed or permanently anonymised.

 

39.2       World Para Snowboard must publish guidelines regarding retention times in relation to Classification Data.

 

39.3       World Para Snowboard must implement policies and procedures that ensure that Classifiers and Classification Personnel retain Classification Data for only as long as is necessary in order for them to carry out their Classification duties in relation to an Athlete. 

 

40        Access Rights to Classification Data

 

40.1       Athletes may request from World Para Snowboard:

 

40.1.1    confirmation of whether or not that World Para Snowboard Processes Classification Data relating to them personally and a description of the Classification Data that is held;

 

40.1.2    a copy of the Classification Data held by World Para Snowboard; and/or

 

40.1.3    correction or deletion of the Classification Data held by World Para Snowboard.

 

40.2       A request may be made by an Athlete or a National Body or a National Paralympic Committee on an Athlete’s behalf and must be complied with within a reasonable period of time ,

 

41        Classification Master Lists

 

41 .1      World Para Snowboard must maintain a Classification Master List of Athletes, which must include the Athlete’s name, gender, year of birth, country, Sport Class and Sport Class Status. The Classification Master List must identify Athletes that enter International Competitions.

 

41.2       World Para Snowboard must make available the Classification Master List to all relevant National Bodies on the World Para Snowboard website.

 

Part Eleven: Appeals

 

42        Appeal

 

42.1       An Appeal is the process by which a formal objection to how Athlete Evaluation and/or Classification procedures have been conducted is submitted and subsequently resolved. 

 

43        Parties Permitted to Make an Appeal

 

43.1       An Appeal may only be made by one of the following bodies:

 

43.1.1    a National Body; or

 

43.1.2    a National Paralympic Committee.  

 

44        Appeals

 

44.1       If a National Body or National Paralympic Committee considers there have been procedural errors made in respect of the allocation of a Sport Class and/or Sport Class Status and as a consequence an Athlete has been allocated an incorrect Sport Class or Sport Class Status, it may submit an Appeal.

 

44.2       The Board of Appeal of Classification (BAC) will act as the hearing body for the resolution of Appeals.

 

44.3       An Appeal must be made and resolved in accordance with the applicable BAC Bylaws. 

 

45        Ad Hoc Provisions Relating to Appeals

 

45.1       The IPC and/or World Para Snowboard may issue special ad hoc provisions to operate during the Paralympic Games or other Competitions.

 

Part Twelve: Glossary

 

Adaptive Equipment: Implements and apparatus adapted to the special needs of Athletes, and used by Athletes during Competition to facilitate participation and/or to achieve results.

 

Appeals: The means by which a complaint that World Para Snowboard has made an unfair decision during the Classification process is resolved.

 

Athlete: For purposes of Classification, any person who participates in sport at the international level (as defined by World Para Snowboard) or national level (as defined by each National Federation) and any additional person who participates in sport at a lower level if designated by the person's National Federation.

 

Athlete Evaluation: The process by which an Athlete is assessed in accordance with these Classification Rules in order that an Athlete may be allocated a Sport Class and Sport Class Status.

 

Athlete Support Personnel: Any coach, trainer, manager, interpreter, agent, team staff, official, medical or para-medical personnel working with or treating Athletes participating in or preparing for training and/or Competition.

 

BAC: The IPC Board of Appeal of Classification.

 

Chief Classifier: A classifier appointed by World Para Snowboard to direct, administer, co- ordinate and implement Classification matters for a specific Competition according to these Classification Rules.

 

Classification: Grouping Athletes into Sport Classes according to how much their Impairment affects fundamental activities in each specific sport or discipline. This is also referred to as Athlete Classification.

 

Classification Data: Personal Information and/or sensitive Personal Information provided by an Athlete and/or a National Body and/or any other person to a Classification Organisation in connection with Classification.

 

Classification Intelligence: Information obtained and used by an International Sport Federation in relation to Classification.

 

Classification Master List: A list made available by the World Para Snowboard that identifies Athletes who have been allocated a Sport Class and designated a Sport Class Status.

 

Classification Not Completed: the designation applied to an Athlete who has commenced but not completed Athlete Evaluation to the satisfaction of Para Sport.

 

Classification Organisation: Any organisation that conducts the process of Athlete Evaluation and allocates Sport Classes and/or holds Classification Data.

 

Classification Panel: A group of Classifiers, appointed by World Para Snowboard, to determine Sport Class and Sport Class Status in accordance with these Classification Rules.

 

Classification Personnel: Persons, including Classifiers, acting with the authority of a Classification Organisation in relation to Athlete Evaluation, for example administrative officers.

 

Classification Rule: Also referred to as Classification Rules and Regulations. The policies, procedures, protocols and descriptions adopted by World Para Snowboard in connection with Athlete Evaluation.

 

Classification System: The framework used by World Para Snowboard to develop and designate Sport Classes within a Para sport.

 

Classifier: A person authorised as an official by World Para Snowboard to evaluate Athletes as a member of a Classification Panel.

 

Classifier Certification: The processes by which World Para Snowboard must assess that a Classifier has met the specific Classifier Competencies required to obtain and maintain certification or licensure.

 

Classifier Competencies: The qualifications and abilities that World Para Snowboard deems necessary for a Classifier to be competent to conduct Athlete Evaluation for sport(s) governed by World Para Snowboard.

 

Classifier Code of Conduct: The behavioural and ethical standards for Classifiers specified by World Para Snowboard.

 

Code: The Athlete Classification Code 2015 together with the International Standards for: Athlete Evaluation; Eligible Impairments; Protests and Appeals; Classifier Personnel and Training; and Classification Data Protection.

 

Competition: A series of individual events conducted together under one ruling body.

 

Compliance: The implementation of rules, regulations, policies and processes that adhere to the text, spirit and intent of the Code as defined by the IPC. Where terms such as (but not limited to) 'comply', 'conform' and 'in accordance' are used in the Code they shall have the same meaning as 'Compliance.'

 

Continuing Education: The delivery of higher knowledge and practical skills specified by World Para Snowboard to preserve and/or advance knowledge and skills as a Classifier in the sport(s) under its governance.

 

Diagnostic Information: Medical records and/or any other documentation that enables World Para Snowboard to assess the existence or otherwise of an Eligible Impairment or Underlying Health Condition

 

Eligible Impairment: An Impairment designated as being a prerequisite for competing in Para sport, as detailed in these Classification Rules.

 

Eligibility Assessment Committee: An ad hoc body formed to assess the existence or otherwise of an Eligible Impairment.

 

Entry Criteria: Standards set by World Para Snowboard relating to the expertise or experience levels of persons who wish to be Classifiers. This may be, for example, former Athletes or coaches, sports scientists, physical educators and medical professionals, all of whom have the qualifications and abilities relevant to conduct all, or specific parts of, Athlete Evaluation.

 

Entry-level Education: the basic knowledge and practical skills specified by World Para Snowboard to begin as a Classifier in the sport(s) under its governance.

 

Evaluation Session: the session an Athlete is required to attend for a Classification Panel to assess that Athlete’s compliance with the Minimum Impairment Criteria for a sport; and allocation of a Sport Class and Sport Class Status depending on the extent to which that Athlete is able to execute the specitic tasks and activities fundamental to that sport. An valuation Session may include Observation in Competition.

Event: A single race, match, game or singular sport contest.

 

First Appearance: The first time an Athlete competes in an Event during a Competition in a particular Sport Class.

 

Fixed Review Date: A date set by a Classification Panel prior to which an Athlete designated with a Sport Class Status Review with a Fixed Review Date will not be required to attend an Evaluation Session save pursuant to a Medical Review Request and/or Protest.

 

Head of Classification: A person appointed by World Para Snowboard to direct, administer, co-ordinate and implement Classification matters for World Para Snowboard.

 

Health Condition: A pathology, acute or chronic disease, disorder, injury or trauma. Impairment: A Physical, Vision or Intellectual Impairment.

 

Intellectual Impairment: A limitation in intellectual functioning and adaptive behaviour as expressed in conceptual, social and practical adaptive skills that originates before the age of eighteen (18).

 

Intentional Misrepresentation: A deliberate attempt (either by fact or omission) to mislead an International Sport Federation or National Body as to the existence or extent of skills and/or abilities relevant to a Para sport and/or the degree or nature of Eligible Impairment during Athlete Evaluation and/or at any other point after the allocation of a Sport Class.

 

International Competitions: A Competition where the IPC, an International Sport Federation or a Major Competition Organisation is the governing body for the Competition and/or appoints the technical officials for the Competition.

 

International Sport Federation: A sport federation recognised by the IPC as the sole world- wide representative of a sport for Athletes with an Impairment that has been granted the status as a Para sport by the IPC. The IPC and the International Organisations of Sports for the Disabled act as an International Sport Federation for certain sports.

 

International Standards: A document complementing the Code and providing additional technical and operational requirements for Classification.

 

IPC: International Paralympic Committee.

 

Maintaining Certification: The advanced training, education and practice necessary for continued competency as a Classifier.

 

Major Competition Organiser: An organisation that functions as the ruling body for an International Competition.

 

Medical Diagnostics Form: a form that a National Body or National Paralympic Committee must submit in order for an Athlete to undergo Athlete Evaluation, identifying the Athlete’s Health Condition if so required.

 

Medical Review: The process by which World Para Snowboard identifies if a change in the nature or degree of an Athlete’s Impairment means that some or all of the components of Athlete Evaluation are required to be undertaken in order to ensure that any Sport Class allocated to that Athlete is correct.

 

Medical Review Request: A request made by a National Body or National Paralympic Committee for Medical Review, made on behalf of an Athlete.

 

Models of Best Practice: An ad hoc guidance document prepared by the IPC to assist in the implementation of the Code and International Standards.

 

National Body: Refers to the national member of an International Sport Federation.

 

National Laws: The national data protection and privacy laws, regulations and policies applicable to a Classification Organisation.

 

National Paralympic Committees: The national member of the IPC who is the sole representative of Athletes with an Impairment in that country or territory. These are the national members of the IPC.

 

National Protest: A Protest made by a National Body or a National Paralympic Committee in respect of an Athlete under its jurisdiction.

 

Non-Competition Venue: Any place or location (outside of a Competition) designated by World Para Snowboard as being a place or location where Athlete Evaluation is made available to Athletes in order that they may be allocated a Sport Class and designated with a Sport Class Status.

 

Observation in Competition: The observation of an Athlete in a Competition by a Classification Panel so that the Classification Panel can complete its determination as to the extent to which an Eligible Impairment affects that Athlete’s ability to execute the specific tasks and activities fundamental to the sport.

 

Paralympic Games: Umbrella term for both Paralympic Games and Paralympic Winter Games.

 

Permanent: The term Permanent as used in the Code and Standards describes an Impairment that is unlikely to be resolved meaning the principle effects are lifelong.

 

Personal Information: Any information that refers to, or relates directly to, an Athlete.

 

Physical Impairment: an Impairment that affects an Athlete’s biomechanical execution of sporting activities, comprising Ataxia, Athetosis, Hypertonia, Impaired Muscle Power, Impaired Passive Range of Movement, Limb Deficiency, Leg Length Difference and Short Stature.

 

Process/Processing: The collection, recording, storage, use or disclosure of Personal Information and/or sensitive Personal Information.

 

Protested Athlete: An Athlete whose Sport Class is being challenged. Protested Decision: The Sport Class decision being challenged.

Protest Documents: The information provided in the Protest Form together with the Protest Fee.

 

Protest Fee: The fee prescribed by World Para Snowboard, payable by the National Body or National Paralympic Committee when submitting a Protest.

 

Protest Form: The form on which a National Protest must be submitted.

 

Protest: The procedure by which a reasoned objection to an Athlete’s Sport Class is submitted and subsequently resolved.

 

Protest Panel: A Classification Panel appointed by the Chief Classifier to conduct an Evaluation Session as a result of a Protest

 

Re-certification: The process by which World Para Snowboard must assess that a Classifier has maintained specific Classifier Competencies.

 

Recognised Competition: a Competition that is sanctioned or approved by World Para Snowboard.

 

Research Purposes: Research into matters pertaining to the development of sports within the Paralympic Movement, including the impact of Impairment on the fundamental activities in each specific sport and the impact of assistive technology on such activities.

 

Signatories: Any organisation that accepts the Code and commits to implement it and the International Standards by way of its Classification Rules.

 

Sport Class: A category for Competition defined by World Para Snowboard by reference to the extent to which an Athlete can perform the specific tasks and activities required by a sport.

 

Sport Class Status: A designation applied to a Sport Class to indicate the extent to which an Athlete may be required to undertake Athlete Evaluation and/or be subject to a Protest.

 

Tracking Code Observation Assessment (OA): a designation given to an Athlete that replaces the Athlete’s Sport Class Status until Observation in Competition has been completed.

 

Underlying Health Condition: a Health Condition that may lead to an Eligible Impairment.

Vision Impairment: an Impairment of the eye structure, optical nerves or optical pathways, or visual cortex of the central brain that adversely affects an Athlete’s vision.


 

Appendix One

 

Athletes with Physical Impairment

 

1          Eligible Impairment Types 

 

World Para Snowboard

Adenauerallee 212-214    Tel. +49 228 2097-200

53113 Bonn, Germany    Fax +49 228 2097-209 www.WorldParaSnowboard.org

 

WorldParaAlpineSkiing@paralympic.org

 

2          Assessment Methodology

 

2.1         An Athlete must undertake physical and technical assessment in order to be allocated a Sport Class. This is required in order to establish that the Athlete exhibits an Impairment that qualifies the Athlete for Competition, and that the Athlete exhibits activity limitations resulting from that Impairment that affect the Athlete’s ability to compete. Both of these components are part of the overall eligibility assessment process that is an integral feature of Athlete Evaluation. The physical and technical assessment detailed in this section are complemented with observation in training and/or Competition if required by the Classification Panel.

 

2.2         In order to complete the physical and technical assessment, a Classification Panel must have access to medical documentation regarding the Athlete’s Impairment.

 

2.3         Athletes are required to attend an Evaluation Session with any prosthetics, braces, strapping, and supports as well as modified Snowboard boots. 

 

Muscle strength testing (Oxford Scale)

 

2.4         Muscle strength must be measured with the Oxford Scale (Daniels and Worthingham 2013). The scores defining the Sport Class profiles make use of this scale.

 

0       Complete absence of muscle contraction.

 

1       Faint contraction noted without any movement of the limb.

 

2       Contraction with very weak movement through full range of movement when gravity is eliminated.

 

3       Contraction moving joint through the full range of movement against gravity.

 

4       Contraction with full range movement against gravity plus some resistance.

 

5       Normal strength through full range of movement against full resistance. 

 

Spasticity grading (Ashworth Scale)

 

2.5         Spasticity must be measured with the Ashworth Scale. The scores defining the Sport Class profiles make use of this scale.

 

0       No increase in muscle tone.

 

1       Slight increase in tone giving a “catch” when affected part is moved in flexion or extension.

2       More marked increase in tone but affected part is easily flexed.

 

3       Considerable increase in tone; passive movement difficult.

 

4       Affected part is rigid in flexion or extension.

 

2.5.1      In conducting the assessment, the Classification Panel must be satisfied that the resistance to passive lengthening of the muscle is related to an underlying Impairment. The following signs may be useful indicators in this regard:

 

·               presence of non-dampening clonus on the side which the tone is increased;

·               abnormal brisk reflexes in the limb in which the tone is increased;

·               mild atrophy in the limb in which the tone is increased;

·               positive Babinski response on the side in which the tone is increased.

 

2.5.2      In conducting the assessment, the Classification Panel must be satisfied that ataxic movements are demonstrable and clearly evident and related to an underlying Impairment. Tests that may be useful for determining this include, but are not limited to:

 

·               finger-to-nose test (Athlete touching own nose from the crucifix position);

·               finger-to-finger test (Classifier presents his/her index finger and asks the Athlete to touch it with his/her own index finger);

·               toe-to-finger test (Classifier presents his/her index finger and asks the Athlete to touch it with his/her toe);

·               heel shin test (drawing the heel of one leg along the length of the contralateral shin, from ankle to knee and then in reverse direction);

§     tandem walk;

§     gait.

 

2.5.3     In conducting the assessment, the Classification Panel must be satisfied that athetotic movements are demonstrable and clearly evident and related to an underlying Impairment. Tests that may be useful for determining this include, but are not limited to:

 

·               involuntary movement of the fingers or upper extremities despite the Athlete trying to remain still;

·               involuntary movement of the toes or lower extremities despite the Athlete trying to remain still;

·               inability to hold the body still  swaying of the body. Swaying must not be due to other neurological deficits such as vestibular or proprioceptive Impairments and therefore must not be exacerbated by closing the eyes during the test;

§     characteristic athetoid posturing of the limbs and/or trunk. 

 

Upper limb assessment

 

2.6         The following aspects should be considered when assessing the upper limbs:

 

§     Muscle power

§     Muscle tone

·               Reflexes

·               Passive range of movement

·               Co-ordination (describe, left and right):

          Hand grasp and release

          Finger opposition

          Finger to nose

          Rapid palm up/palm down on lap

          Bilateral finger opposition in front of body

 

2.6.1      The aim of an upper limb neurological assessment is to determine if an Athlete has a bilateral or unilateral Impairment which would ensure Minimal Impairment Criteria is met. This applies also for limb loss, and limited active and/or passive ROM.

 

Lower limb assessment

 

2.7         The following aspects should be considered when assessing the lower limbs:

·               Muscle power

·               Muscle tone

·               Reflexes

·               Passive range of movement

·               Co-ordination (describe, left and right):

          Heel walking

          Toe walking

          Heel- toe walking in a straight line

          Single leg stance (eyes open and eyes shut)

          Hoping on one leg, on spot/clockwise/anti-clockwise

          Running (including quick change of direction)

          Knee lifts whilst running

          Heel kick when running

          Jumping

           Rapid squats

 

2.7.1      The aim of a lower limb neurological assessment is to determine if an Athlete has a bilateral or unilateral Impairment, and to make an evidence based Classification decision. 

 

3          Assessment Criteria for the Allocation of a Sport Class and the Designation of Sport Class Status

 

Final Sport Class allocation is a result of a combination of several measurements and assessments.

 

 

3.1         Impairment of the lower limb(s) SB - LL1

SB - LL2

3.2         Impairment of the upper limb(s) SUL

 

3.3         Athletes with combined lower-upper limb Impairment, meeting the criteria defined in Articles 3.1 and 3.2 of this Appendix, will be required to choose if they wish to be assessed for a Sport Class for upper- or lower-limb Impairment. Such choice must be made in accordance with Article 16.2 of these Rules.

 

3.4         The use of upper and lower limb prosthesis/orthosis is regulated in the World Para Snowboard Rules and Regulations and/ or the World Para Snowboard Equipment Rulebook.

 

Appendix Two

 

1          Non-Eligible Impairment Types for all Athletes

 

Examples of Non-Eligible Impairments include, but are not limited to the following:

·               Pain;

·               Hearing impairment;

·               Low muscle tone;

·               Hypermobility of joints;

·               Joint instability, such as unstable shoulder joint, recurrent dislocation of a joint;

·               Impaired muscle endurance;

·               Impaired motor reflex functions;

·               Impaired cardiovascular functions;

·               Impaired respiratory functions;

·               Impairment metabolic functions;

·               Tics and mannerisms, stereotypes and motor perseveration;

·               Short Stature;

·               Visual impairment; and

·               Intellectual impairment. 

 

2                                                     Health Conditions that are not Underlying Health Conditions for all Athletes

 

A number of Health Conditions do not lead to an Eligible Impairment and are not Underlying Health Conditions. An Athlete who has a Health Condition (including, but not limited to, one of the Health Conditions listed in the above Appendix One) but who does not have an Underlying Health Condition will not be eligible to compete in Para sport.

 

Health Conditions that primarily cause pain; primarily cause fatigue; primarily cause joint hypermobility or hypotonia; or are primarily psychological or psychosomatic in nature do not lead to an Eligible Impairment.

 

Examples of Health Conditions that primarily cause pain include myofacial pain-dysfunction syndrome, fibromyalgia or complex regional pain syndrome.

 

An example of a Health Condition that primarily causes fatigue is chronic fatigue syndrome.

 

An example of a Health Condition that primarily causes hypermobility or hypotonia is Ehlers- Danlos syndrome.

 

Examples of Health Conditions that are primarily psychological or psychosomatic in nature include conversion disorders or post-traumatic stress disorder.