The Classification procedure in para-sport determines which para-athletes are eligible to compete in a sport and aims to minimise the impact of their impairment on the outcome of the competition. Not an easy task.
But it’s a task that Terrie Moore embraced for nearly 30 years, and for which she recently received a Classification Recognition Award from the International Paralympic Committee (IPC).
Since working at her first para-cycling event in 1997, Terrie Moore has been involved in many initiatives and programmes that have seen the Classification system improve: the creation of the current Classification rules, ensuring compliance with the IPC Classification Code, creating guidelines and educational material, and providing administrative support as Head of Classification at the UCI.
She witnessed major improvements since the days when Classification was based on medical evaluation, with little emphasis on assessing the impact on sport. The introduction of the Classification Code in 2007 was a major turning point.
“Initially Classification was medically based per impairment group, but it became more functional when sports-specific movement was developed,” she says. “The IPC Classification Code and the introduction of Medical Diagnostic forms [filled out be the athlete’s doctor] have increased the validity of Classification.”
Para-cycling now comprises four sport groups, loosely defined as follows:
C – Cyclist: conventional bike with some minor adaptations
T – Tricycle: three-wheeled bike
B – Blind: tandem
H – Handcycling
Each sport group is divided into different classes depending on the severity of the impairment, which is established during the Classification process.
Terrie Moore has always worked closely with other experts to ensure the UCI’s para-cycling regulations reflect the latest scientific advancements and inclusive sporting practices. She was heavily involved in the 2009 reform of para-cycling Classification, creating a system that was easier for athletes and the public to understand. She also participated in the reclassification of hundreds of athletes, ensuring they were placed in the correct categories following these regulatory changes. Her expertise contributed to making para-cycling a more accessible and equitable sport.
“My greatest satisfaction has been refining the sports class profiles with evidence-based systems and research,” she reflects.
She has passed on her knowledge to the next generation of Classifiers through training courses and mentorship programmes, elevating professional standards across the community.
Her work in Classification also extended to other sports, such as taekwondo. She says her years of volunteering have led to incredible highlights, not least working at six Paralympic Games: Sydney 2000, Athens 2004, Beijing 2008, London 2012, Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020…. twice as torch-bearer.
“No regrets,” she confirms as she retires from her long career in the world of Classification.