Para-athletics factoid: Frame Running

Frame Running (previously called RaceRunning) is a relatively new para-athletics event - announced by World Para Athletics (WPA) as an official track discipline in 2017.

Frame Running is for athletes with severe coordination and balance impairments such as cerebral palsy and the wheeled frame enables the legs to propel the athlete while helping to aid balance. Athletes can be classified into categories T71 and T72. Events range from 60m to 1500m.

Frame running has been a competitive event at the Para Athletics European and World championships since then but is not included in this year's Paris Paralympic Games. However, it has been integrated into the England Athletics Championships for a number of years and we also support frame runners through the Para Academy.

At all WPA recognised competitions the running frame shall have a support saddle, a body support plate, handlebars, two rear wheels and one front wheel. There should not be any gear mechanism or mirrors. There are a number of parameters a frame must meet, such as maximum length and width, wheel diameter for each of the three wheels, and functional brakes and steering.