Are There any Unique Paralympic Events?
Whilst all Paralympic events are modified from Olympic events to an extent, there are only two unique Paralympic events. That is to say, events with no Olympic equivalent. Neither Boccia nor Goalball take place in the Olympic Games, only in the Paralympics. So, what are these sports, and why are Lifestyle & Mobility so excited to watch them? First, let’s consider boccia. Boccia is somewhat similar to petanque, but also very much its own sport. It is practiced by people with cerebral palsy or other neurological conditions. It can be played both solo, or in small teams. Boccia requires precision and good spatial awareness. One player, or team, gets six red balls, the other player or team gets six blue ones. The aim of this Paralympic sport is to get the most balls closest to a white ball, also known as the “jack”
As usual for both Paralympic and Olympic events, athletes are separated into different competitive classes. There are four classes which boccia Paralympians are divided into, depending on the extent to which their condition affects their ability to play the sport.
What are the Boccia Categories?
BC1. In this category, athletes have severe activity limitations and are typically dependent on a powerchair
BC2. In this category, players have better trunk and arm function than those in BC1. They are often able to throw the ball overhand and underhand and with a variety of grasps.
BC3. In this category, athletes have significant limitations in arm and leg functions, and poor or no trunk control. They are unable to consistently grasp or release the ball and are unable to propel the ball consistently into the field of play. They are allowed to use a ramp with the help of a Sport Assistant. The Sport Assistant will also receive a medal if the athlete wins
BC4 class contains players with non-cerebral impairments that also impact their co-ordination.
Boccia at the Tokyo Paralympics 2020
What About Goalball? 
Goalball is a slightly more complicated sport to understand, although this video is a good starting point. The first thing to know about the second of the unique Paralympic events is that it is played by Paralympians with substantial visual impairments. Limited mobility equipment usage is required. This is because Goalball is an intensely demanding and physical sport. Diving blocks, powerful throws, and quick reflexes all play a part. Since Goalball is open to athletes with varying degrees of visual impairment, all competitors wear blackout masks to ensure a level playing field.
Team GB will be competing in Goalball at the 2024 Paralympics. you can learn more about the world’s largest sport entirely for the blind and partially sighted at Goalball UK