Athletes are given a classification depending on the type and extent of their disability. The classification system allows athletes to compete against others with a similar level of function.
The class numbers were given prefixes of "T" and "F" for track and field events, respectively. High jump and Long jump, while field events, usually attract a "T" classification
Visually impaired athletes classified 11 run with full eye shades and a guide runner, those classified 12 have the option of using a guide, while those classified 13 do not use a guide runner. Guide runners are awarded medals alongside their athletes.
On 9 June 2015, the IPC announced the final make up of the Rio 2016 athletics programme. There were several changes in the programme, including the elimination of triple jump events, and the reduction of events requiring a factoring system, as this was seen[by whom?] to undermine the image of the event as sport.
The following is a summary of all athletics events which took place at the Games:[1]
Event summary table
Athletics at the 2016 Summer Paralympics - Men's Events (96)
RG : Les Autres classification, including dwarfism and restricted growth
● : Event in this classification
>> : Competitors in this classification may take part in event for the next competed classification, e.g. T33 may compete in T34 event, or both T35 and T36 athletes may compete in a T37 event.