RULES AND HOW TO ORGANIZE SWIMMING COMPETITION FOR CHILDREN WITH VISUAL IMPAIRMENTS

According to the International Blind Sports Association, swimming competition rules for visually impaired athletes are largely similar to those for sighted swimmers, with a few key adaptations to ensure safety and fairness.

These competitions are governed by the World Para Swimming, which follows the general rules of the International Swimming Federation, with modifications as needed to accommodate the needs of visually impaired athletes.

Swimmers are categorized into three classes: S11, S12, and S13, based on their level of visual impairment. These align with the sight classifications B1, B2, and B3:

• B1 and B2 classifications are for athletes with the most severe visual impairments.
• B1 swimmers must wear darkened goggles during races. Rules are adapted to allow for situations such as touching the lane ropes during strokes like the butterfly.
• B3 swimmers have a higher level of visual acuity, can recognize large letters or symbols on an eye chart from 3 to 6 meters away, and have a visual field of up to 40 degrees.

These classifications are based on the World Health Organization’s (WHO) definitions of low vision and blindness.

When organizing a swimming competition for children with visual impairments, various supports and adaptations are essential to ensure a safe and positive experience.

These include lane markers, tappers, and navigation devices. Each plays an important role in helping swimmers stay within their lanes, know when to turn, and avoid potential obstacles in the water.

• Lane markers are standard features in most swimming pools and help swimmers orient themselves in the lane. For swimmers with some usable vision, the markers can also serve as visual guides.
• Tappers are crucial. A tapper is a trained person who uses a long pole with a soft foam end to gently tap the swimmer when they are nearing the end of the lane or need to make a turn. Tappers must be highly familiar with the swimmer’s pace and timing to give accurate and safe signals.
• Navigation devices are a modern solution, but are still rare in school settings. The most accessible of these are beeping devices, which emit a sound when the swimmer approaches the end of the pool. These devices promote greater independence and confidence in the water.

With the right support systems in place and a trained staff, swimming competitions can be an empowering and enjoyable experience for children with visual impairments, allowing them to develop their skills and confidence in a safe and inclusive environment.