T51 (classification)

Similar classifications are T52, T53 and T54[2] Jane Buckley, writing for the Sporting Wheelies, describes the athletes in this classification as: "Wheelchair athlete who has mild weakness in shoulders, limited ability in straightening elbows and wrist function.

"[1] The International Paralympic Committee described this classification on their website in July 2016 as follows: "Athletes usually have decreased shoulder muscle power and difficulty straightening the elbows for a pushing action required for wheelchair racing propulsion.

Wheelchair propulsion is achieved with a pulling action using the elbow flexor and wrist extensor muscles".

[5] Because this is a wheelchair class, different rules apply for overtaking with the responsibility lying with the racer coming from behind.

Racers don't use a baton, but instead transfer via touch of the body in the exchange zone.

[5] In wheelchair races, the winner and time is determined by when the center of the front axle goes across the finish line.

[5] The classification was created by the International Paralympic Committee and has roots in a 2003 attempt to address "the overall objective to support and co-ordinate the ongoing development of accurate, reliable, consistent and credible sport focused classification systems and their implementation.

This policy was put into place in 2014, with the goal of avoiding last minute changes in classes that would negatively impact athlete training preparations.

All competitors needed to be internationally classified with their classification status confirmed prior to the Games, with exceptions to this policy being dealt with on a case-by-case basis.

During this, they both undergo a medical assessment and are asked to demonstrate skills in athletics, such as pushing a racing wheelchair and throwing.