Para-Karate Research Presented at IPC Annual Classification Meeting

11/12/2024

Para-Karate

Para-Karate Research Presented at IPC Annual Classification Meeting

Karate’s Paralympic prospects and the positive impact of Para-Karate on the Paralympic sports ecosystem were highlighted at the Annual Classification Meeting of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC). Held in Bonn, Germany from October 9 to 11, the meeting gathered over 140 representatives of International Federations (IFs), National Paralympic Committees (NPCs), and other organizations focused on reviewing progress in the classification of para-athletes and the 2025 IPC Classification Code, which takes effect in January.

At the meeting, WKF Para-Karate chairperson Dusana Augustovicova presented research from the VEGA project titled "Model of Sport-Specific Classification for Intellectually Impaired Para-Karate Athletes," conducted by Comenius University in collaboration with the VIRTUS Research Academy.

 

 

This project, designed to create a robust classification model for intellectually impaired para-karate athletes, underscores the importance of evidence-based classification in ensuring fairness, accuracy, and inclusion within the Paralympic Games programme.



Initiatives like the WKF’s research project are instrumental in aligning with IPC standards, strengthening classification credibility, and supporting the inclusion of intellectually impaired athletes within the Paralympic Games programme.

 

"I'm delighted we have established a solid pilot study as a foundation. Two of our initial scientific papers have completed the first round of revisions in highly-ranked journals, with several others currently in preparation. I believe this work will not only shine a spotlight on the WKF but also significantly benefit our athletes,” said Mrs Augustovicova.

 

WKF President Antonio Espinós said:

 

“The Paralympic inclusion of our sport is one of the main ambitions of our organisation as we firmly believe in the many added values that Para-Karate brings to the Paralympic movement. Showcases of the virtues of Para-Karate, as the research presented by Mrs   Augustovicova at the IPC Annual Classification Meeting come to attest to Para-Karate’s efficiency and high accountability of our discipline.”