The sport of Swimming for athletes with an impairment is governed by the IPC, and co-ordinated by the IPC Swimming Technical Committee, using the International Swimming Federation’s (FINA) modified rules.
The 2014-2017 IPC Swimming Rules and Regulations can be found in the pdf link to the left hand side.
IPC Swimming acknowledges, and is grateful for, the support and input received from the IPC Swimming Community in preparing these Rules and Regulations through the:
• IPC Swimming Forum 2013
• Informal meetings held with the community at various competitions
• Revision done by the former and current STC members
The major changes to the 2011-2014 IPC Swimming Rules and Regulations are as follows:
• Recommendations passed by the IPC Swimming membership at the 2013 Sport Forum, incorporated where applicable
• Alignment with the wording of FINA Swimming Rules and their interpretation is made, such as:
o Only records achieved at competitions with AOE or semi-AOE are recognised, until swimmer was wearing a swimsuit as per the rules
o Stroke cycle is defined in freestyle and backstroke
o Touch at turn and finish in breaststroke and butterfly
o Arm movement in butterfly
o Mixed relay
o Adjustable back plate and adjustable starting platform for backstroke
o Clear clarification on athlete having 2 caps and advertising on the caps
• Minimum age of 12 years has been identified to enter in IPC Swimming competition
• The list of events is updated
• The protest and appeal procedure clearly explained
• Classification references aligned with the IPC Swimming Classification Rules and Regulations and IPC Handbook (see Change of Sport Class)
• The IPC Swimming Strategic Plan is referred to
Please note that if there are any changes (e.g. changes in FINA rules, or classification related matters), the 2014-2017 IPC Swimming Rules and Regulations can be amended before 2017. Proper notice of any changes will be given.