Para cross-country skiing
What is Para cross-country skiing?
Para cross-country skiing is an adaptation of cross-country skiing for athletes with disabilities. Para cross-country skiers compete in events of varying distances, such as the sprint, the 10 km, the 20 km, and the relay.
History of Para cross-country skiing
Para cross-country skiing first appeared at the 1976 Paralympic Winter Games in Örnsköldsvik, Sweden. It is one of two Para Nordic sports (the other being Para biathlon).
How do you compete in Para cross-country skiing?
Male and female Para athletes compete in short distance, middle distance and long distance events ranging from 2.5km to 20km using classical or free techniques. There is also a team relay event. Cross-country skiing follows modified rules of the International Ski Federation (FIS) and is practiced by Para athletes in 24 countries.
Who can compete in Para cross-country skiing?
The competition is open to athletes with a physical or visual impairment. Depending on functional impairment, competitors may use a sit-ski, a chair equipped with a pair of skis. Athletes with visual impairment compete in the event with a sighted guide.
Para cross-country skiing
To date, no New Zealanders have competed in Para cross-country skiing at the Paralympic Winter Games.
Adaptive Snow Sports Programmes are currently offered at most New Zealand ski resorts, with opportunities to progress to the international level. Register your interest now!
