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Events: Javelin, Discus, Shotput

Classification for field events ranges from F51 – F58 for seated throwers, with classes F51 – F53 being for athletes with disabilities affecting both their upper and lower limbs (such as quadriplegics) and classes F54 – F58 for athletes with limited function in their lower limbs only. Seated throwers use specially designed frames from which they throw the implements.  

Wheelchair Sports also caters for ambulant field athletes and they are classified from F42-F46 for amputee athletes and F35-38 for cerebral palsy athletes. Unlike F51-F58 throwers, these athletes throw from a standing position and therefore do not require throwing frames to compete.  

THE FRAME

The maximum height of any frame including the seat is 75cm. The frame can be any shape or dimension as long as it fits within the throwing circle. Frames are ‘tied down’ using ratchet straps attached to steel pickets driven into the ground. These straps are used to hold the frames in place while the athlete is throwing. Depending on the size and power of the athlete, usually 4-6 pickets are used to secure the frame.    

ATHLETES

F51-56 Athletes:

  • Has to have one upper leg or buttock in contact with the seat until the implement is released. 
  • Generally use a handle for leverage whilst throwing. Due to lack of balance they use the handle to pull them forward.
  • F56 athletes generally don’t use a handle while throwing the discus. They usually use the helicopter/windmill rotation action as they have abdominal muscles.
  • All parts of the frame(including the handle) must be within the confines of the throwing circle, with the exception of the footplates.

F57 Athletes:

Some athletes use a handle to throw, but it depends on the implement being used.

F58 athletes:

Athletes have very good balance and therefore do not require a handle.

F57& F58 athletes:

  • Athletes must have one foot in contact with the ground if lifting takes place.
  • Athletes can commence the throw in a sitting position.
  • Any part of the frame being used for leverage must be inside the circle.  

COACHING

Any able bodied coach can coach athletes with a disability in field events provided they have knowledge of the athletes’ disability. The information the coach needs as far as the athletes’ disability are: how much balance they have (ie:abdominals) and whether they can stand or not. The basics are the same as for able bodies athletes but the coach has to work with the muscle power and co-ordination that the disabled athlete has. This comes with experience.

TRAINING

Field training is co-ordinated by coach Frank Ponta. During summer months, athletes train at Perry Lakes (Oval opposite Rugby Stadium). Meagher Drive, Floreat. 9am - 11:30am with coaching on all events and classes. Beginners are most welcome.