NASTAR Adaptive Classification Guidelines

Overview

NASTAR’s grassroots ski racing program is built on the principles of fairness, inclusivity, and the integrity of competition. While the NASTAR handicap and medal system already accommodates a wide range of abilities, the impairment classification system is designed specifically for participants with permanent, extraordinary impairments that significantly affect skiing or snowboarding performance.

This document provides racers, race directors, and the broader NASTAR community with clear guidelines and a shared understanding of how the impairment classification system works, ensuring it is applied consistently and fairly.

Philosophy of NASTAR’s Handicap and Adaptive Systems

1. Handicap System
   - The handicap and medal system accounts for natural differences in skill, strength, flexibility, age, and gender.  
   - Racers compete on an adjusted basis within their age group and gender category, ensuring fairness for most participants.

2. Adaptive Classification System
   - This system is reserved for racers with permanent, significant impairments that cannot be addressed by training, effort, or adaptive equipment.  
   - It is governed by an Honor System, supported by peer accountability and community education.

Eligibility Criteria for Adaptive Classification

Racers must meet the following criteria to qualify for adaptive classification:

1. Permanent Physical Impairments
   - Qualifies:
     - Amputations or use of prosthetic limbs.  
     - Severe joint restrictions (e.g., fused hip or knee with <50% range of motion).  
     - Paralysis or significant muscle weakness affecting balance, mobility, or strength.  
   - Does Not Qualify: 
     - Routine recoveries from surgery (e.g., hip or knee replacement with restored function).  
     - General stiffness, mild arthritis, or reduced flexibility typical of aging.

2. Visual Impairments 
   - Qualifies:  
     - Blindness in one eye.  
     - Severe peripheral vision loss affecting depth perception and awareness.  
   - Does Not Qualify: 
     - Corrected vision impairments handled by glasses or contact lenses.

3. Neurological Impairments
   - Qualifies:  
     - Ataxia, spasticity, or tremors significantly affecting balance and coordination.  
     - Conditions such as cerebral palsy or multiple sclerosis with observable performance limitations.  
   - Does Not Qualify: 
     - Minor balance issues or conditions that do not impact skiing performance significantly.

4. Other Permanent Disabilities 
   Any condition resulting in a measurable disadvantage compared to peers in the same age and gender group, with evidence of functional limitations that impact skiing mechanics.

The Honor System

NASTAR relies on an Honor System to ensure the fairness and integrity of the adaptive classification process. Racers claiming adaptive classification are expected to:  

- Self-Assess Honestly: Carefully evaluate whether their condition meets the eligibility criteria for significant, permanent impairments that affect performance.  
- Demonstrate Integrity: Be truthful and accurate when representing their condition and its impact on skiing mechanics.  
- Respect Community Accountability: Accept feedback and questions from race directors and peers in the spirit of fairness and inclusivity.

Racer Accountability Process

- Declare Impairment: Racers verbally declare their impairment to race officials when registering or participating in events, describing how their condition meets the criteria outlined above.  
- Provide Context When Needed: Race directors may ask racers to clarify their condition to ensure it aligns with the system’s purpose.  
- Community Oversight: Fellow racers and race officials are encouraged to maintain a fair and inclusive atmosphere by addressing concerns respectfully and constructively.

Guidance for Race Directors

- Understand the Eligibility Criteria: Familiarize yourself with the distinction between impairments qualifying for classification and normal variations in ability handled by the handicap and medals system.  
- Apply Policies Consistently: Use the provided examples to guide decisions and discussions with racers. If in doubt, encourage racers to provide additional details about their situation.  
- Promote the Honor System: Educate racers on the purpose and philosophy of the impairment classification system. Foster a culture of respect and fairness within the racing community.  
- Observe Performance: In cases of uncertainty, race officials may observe the racer’s performance to confirm consistency with the claimed impairment.

Community Accountability and External Resources

- Peer Accountability: Racers and spectators are encouraged to address concerns respectfully if they believe the system is being misused.  
- Reference to Rigorous Standards: For racers seeking more detailed guidance on impairment classifications, NASTAR recommends referencing established resources such as the FIS Para-Alpine Classification Guidelines (https://www.fis-ski.com/para-alpine/documents#Para%20Classification) or similar credible organizations.

Conclusion

NASTAR’s adaptive classification system complements its handicap and medal structure, ensuring fairness and inclusivity for racers with extraordinary disadvantages. By adhering to these guidelines and upholding the Honor System, the NASTAR community ensures a positive and competitive experience for all participants.