LW5/7
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LW5/7 is a standing para-alpine and para-Nordic skiing classification for skiers with upper extremity issues in both limbs that may include double amputation of both arms and hands or dysmelia of the upper limbs. The class has three subclasses defined by the location of the disability on the upper extremities. International classification is done by IPC Alpine Skiing and IPC Nordic Skiing. On the national level, classification is handled by national sports federation such as Cross-Country Canada.
Skiers in this class use two skis and no ski poles in para-alpine and para-Nordic, though skiers can use mini-ski poles provided they cannot hold a ski pole without the use of a prosthesis. Skiers develop techniques to ski that compensate for balance issues as a result of missing arms. A factoring system is used in para-alpine and para-Nordic to allow LW5/7 skiers to compete fairly against other skiers with disabilities. While this classification was not grouped with others at the 1984 Winter Olympics Exhibition Competition, it was grouped with other standing classes during events in the 1990s and 2000s.
LW5/7.1
LW5/7 is used in para-alpine and para-Nordic standing skiing,[1][2] where LW stands for Locomotor Winter.[3] People in this class have upper extremity issues in both limbs[2][4] and may include issue such as paralysis or dysmelia in both arms.[5] The disability may be a result of double amputation of both arms and hands or dysmelia of the upper limbs.[6]
The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) defined this classification for para-alpine as "Competitors with disabilities in both upper limbs skiing with two normal skis and without poles ... The disability shall be such that the functional use of poles is not possible. Typical disability profile of the class is double-arm amputation."[7] In 2002, the Australian Paralympic Committee defined this classification for para-alpine as a standing skiing classification with "Two skis, no poles, disability in both arms or hands."[8] The IPC defined this classification for para-Nordic skiing as for "those with impairment in both upper limbs without the use of prosthesis. The impairment must be such that the athlete is unable to use poles."[5] Cross Country Canada defined this classification for para-Nordic as "Impairment in both upper limbs (arms) without the use of prosthesis. The impairment must be such that the athlete is unable to use poles. If the athlete is able to use a pole they must compete as LW6 or LW8" in 2012.[9]
For international para-alpine skiing competitions, classification is done through IPC Alpine Skiing. A national federation such as Alpine Canada handles classification for domestic competitions.[10] For para-Nordic skiing events, classification is handled by IPC Nordic Skiing Technical Committee on the international level and by the national sports federation such as Cross-Country Canada on a country by country level.[11][12] When being assessed into this classification, a number of things are considered, including reviewing the skiers medical history and medical information on the skier's disability, having a physical examination and an in person assessment of the skier training or competing.[6] If a skier in this classification has the ability to use a ski pole of some sort, they may do so but they need to changes classes and compete in LW6/8.[13]
The IPC defines this para-alpine classification as both arms amputated above the elbow, short stumps, no elbow joints or forearms.[6]
LW5/7.2
The IPC defines this para-alpine classification as one arm amputated above the elbow, the other below the elbow.[6]
LW5/7.3
The IPC defines this para-alpine classification as both arms amputated or dysfunctional below the elbow, both hands unable to hold or use ski poles.[6]
Equipment and technique
Skiers in this class use two skis and no ski poles in para-alpine[6] and para-Nordic.[5][9] While skiers are prohibited from using traditional ski poles, they may use mini poles so long as they are unable to hold a traditional ski pole without the use of a prostheses.[14] Skiers are also allowed to use prostheses or orthoses in competition.[7][6] FIS rules for ski boots and binding heights are followed for this class.[15] Skiers in this class must wear a slalom helmet in slalom events and crash helmets during the giant slalom.[15]
In the slalom event, competitors are more likely to use a partial ski pole or a prosthetic to hold a ski pole that they may not use in other disciplines.[16] Techniques to compensate for balance issues as a result of an upper limb disability may be corrected by using knee drives or hip motions.[17]
In the Biathlon, all Paralympic athletes shoot from a prone position. Athletes with amputations can use a rifle support while shooting.[18]
