Manila hosts IPC Athletics National Classifier Course

Manila, Philippines, played host to an IPC Athletics National Classifier course earlier last month (10-12 June) – the first time ever the South-East Asian country has held an IPC Athletics educational programme.

The three-day course took place with the backing of the Agitos Foundation and UK Sport, as well as the support of the Philippines National Paralympic Committee, and was led by Genevieve Duff - one of IPC Athletics’ most experienced Educators.

Nine participants from across the region took part in the course aimed at developing the volunteer capacity for national classification throughout South East Asia - and all were successful.

Danis, from the Philippines said: “What I liked about the course is that I got to learn how to fill out the classification card which I am not used to. Before I thought it wasn't important but it is.

“Our Educator was patiently accommodating to all of our queries and answered everything we threw at her. I also got to know my strengths and weaknesses in terms of classifying athletes. I hope to proceed to international level soon but I know I need to get more exposure and experience as a National Classifier.”

With a continued rise in the number of Para athletes and competitions taking place around the world, the demand for Officials is also growing. As a consequence further courses are planned for next year.