What is para rowing?
B · Beginner · Classes and equipment · 1 of 2Para rowing is rowing for athletes with an eligible physical or visual impairment, under World Rowing's Rules of Racing with the changes in Appendix R14. Crews race 2000 m like other rowers. Rowers are classed PR1, PR2 or PR3 by how much they can use trunk and legs, and the PR1 and PR2 boats are standard designs with fixed seats.
How it works
- Rules: the Rules of Racing plus Appendix R14.
- Distance: 2000 m.
- Classes: PR1, PR2 and PR3.
- Moving up: a rower may race a more functional class.
- Standard boats: PR1 1x, PR2 1x and PR2 2x.
- Fixed seats: in PR1 and PR2 boats.
- Paralympic events: five boat classes.
- Strapping: set by class, quick-release.
The glossary has the para rowing, the Appendix R14, the right to compete (para rowing), the sport classes PR1, PR2 and PR3, the Paralympic boat classes (rowing) and the standard para rowing boat.
Tricky cases
Is the para course shorter?
No. It is 2000 m.
Can a PR2 rower race in PR1?
No. Only in a more functional class, such as PR3.
Do ordinary rowing rules apply?
Yes, except where R14 says otherwise.
Who designs the standard boat?
World Rowing's Council.
Why the rule exists
Classes follow what the rower can use to move the boat. Standard boats stop equipment deciding races.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| PR1 and PR2 | Fixed seat, standard boat | R14 7 |
| PR3 | Sliding seat | R15 8 |
| Paralympics | Five events | R14 6 |
From the rule book
World Rowing, Rules of Racing and Related Bye-Laws (March 2025), Rule 24 and Appendices R14 and R15, with World Rowing Umpiring Commission, Para-Rowing 2026 presentation (8 February 2026). Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: World Rowing Rules of Racing, Appendices R14 and R15.