Athletes

Para & Adaptive Rowing

USRowing supports rowing for people with disabilities and impairments who need modifications to participate in the sport. We provide technical assistance and education to club leadership and coaches, advice and guidance to athletes, and more. From modifications to equipment, to the way rowing is communicated and coached, adaptive rowing provides a competitive or recreational space for rowers with physical, intellectual, neurodivergence or other impairments that require the support of others to be able to row. Rowing on the water or indoors offers people with disabilities a variety of ways to increase muscle strength, cardiac health, and increased range of motion.

Para Classifications

Classification provides a structure for Para rowing competition. The classification system is designed to determine eligibility for Para rowing, and to group athletes according to their impairment to create a level playing field. Review the steps below for more information on becoming Para classified. 

1. Determine if you have an eligible impairment. View the World Rowing List of Eligible Impairments to see if your impairment is listed, or use the Online Tool on World Rowing to get an initial indication if you are eligible. This tool is for informational purposes only, and does not have any bearing in the classification process.
2. Have your physician fill out the appropriate World Rowing Medical Diagnostics form. Choose the form that is appropriate for you. Obtain additional medical documentation as required. Examples can be found in the chart on the list of Eligible Impairments.
3. Submit a Classification Request Form at least 60 days prior to the classification evaluation in which you intend to compete as a para rower and include all relevant classification documents. Questions? Please email classification@usrowing.org.

Sport Classes

Below are the sport classes Para athletes can be classified into. 

• PR1 - Physical Impairment. This sport class is for athletes who row predominately with their arms and shoulders. Athletes use strapping around their mid section to provide support and stability in the boat.
• PR2 - Physical Impairment. This sport class is for rowers who have trunk and arm movement, who are unable to use their legs to propel the sliding seat.
• PR3 - Physical Impairment (PI) and Visual Impairment (VI). This sport class is for rowers who have the use of their legs, trunk and arms, who can utilize the sliding seat.
• NE - Does not meet the minimum eligibility for Para rowing but may continue to row as an adaptive athlete in non-Para rowing events. 

Pathways Opportunities

The USRowing Pathways Program underscores our dedication to nurturing American rowing talent and provides the resources, coaching, and development pathways required to empower our athletes to become the best in the world.