Wheelchair curling
Overview
Wheelchair curling is a variant of the sport of curling specifically designed for individuals with physical disabilities affecting their lower body. The sport is governed by the World Curling Federation and is one of the sports contested in the Winter Paralympic Games.
History
Wheelchair curling was first played in Europe in the late 1990s, with the first international wheelchair curling event, the Wheelchair Curling Bonspiel, taking place in Switzerland in 2000. The sport was added to the official program of the Winter Paralympic Games at the 2006 Winter Paralympics in Turin, Italy.
Rules
The rules of wheelchair curling are closely based on those of traditional curling, with a few modifications to accommodate the needs of wheelchair athletes. For instance, no sweeping is allowed in wheelchair curling, and stones may be delivered using a delivery stick.
Equipment
The equipment used in wheelchair curling includes a specially designed wheelchair, curling stones, and a delivery stick. The wheelchair is designed to be stable on ice and to allow the athlete to deliver the stone with accuracy.
Strategy
The strategy in wheelchair curling is similar to that in traditional curling. Teams aim to have their stones closest to the center of the house, while also attempting to remove their opponents' stones.
Competitions
Wheelchair curling competitions are held at both national and international levels. The most prestigious competition is the Winter Paralympic Games, but other significant events include the World Wheelchair Curling Championship and the European Wheelchair Curling Championship.