This article will address the topic of H4 (classification), which has been the subject of debate and interest in different areas. H4 (classification) has attracted great attention due to its relevance in today's society and its impact on various aspects of daily life. Throughout history, H4 (classification) has played a fundamental role in the evolution of humanity, being the object of study and research in multiple disciplines. In this sense, different perspectives and approaches related to H4 (classification) will be analyzed, with the aim of providing a comprehensive and enriching vision on this topic. Through a rigorous and critical analysis, the aim is to delve into the different aspects that characterize H4 (classification), as well as its implications and repercussions today.
H4 is a para-cycling classification. The UCI recommends this be coded as MH4 or WH4.[1]
Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) defines H4[2] as:
minimum of grade 3, lower limb more involved.
This classification can use ATP3 knee-seat cycle that is forward leaning on a rigid frame.[3]
Cycling first became a Paralympic sport at the 1988 Summer Paralympics.[4] In September 2006, governance for para-cycling passed from the International Paralympic Committee's International Cycling Committee to UCI at a meeting in Switzerland. When this happened, the responsibility of classifying the sport also changed.[5]
For the 2016 Summer Paralympics in Rio, the International Paralympic Committee had a zero classification at the Games policy. This policy was put into place in 2014, with the goal of avoiding last minute changes in classes that would negatively impact athlete training preparations. All competitors needed to be internationally classified with their classification status confirmed prior to the Games, with exceptions to this policy being dealt with on a case-by-case basis.[6]
Competitors in this classification include Ernst van Dyk (South Africa), Alex Zanardi (Italy), Andrea Eskau (Germany) and Laura de Vaan (Netherlands).
This classification has UCI rankings for elite competitors.[7]
Events for this classification at the include the men's Individual H 4 Road Race, Men's Individual H 4 Time Trial, women's Individual H 4 Road Race, and Women's Individual H 4 Time Trial.[8]
Classification is handled by Union Cycliste Internationale.[9] Classification for the UCI Para-Cycling World Championships is completed by at least two classification panels. Members of the classification panel must not have a relationship with the cyclist and must not be involved in the World Championships in any other role than as classifier.[10] In national competitions, the classification is handled by the national cycling federation.[10] Classification often has three components: physical, technical and observation assessment.[10]