Paralympic Shooting
Shooting is a test of accuracy and control, in which competitors use pistols or rifles to fire a series of shots at static targets.
Did you know?
- Paralympic Shooting legend Isabel Newstead was one of Britain‘s greatest-ever Paralympians. She died in 2007 as the reigning European, World and Olympic champion.
- Great Britain has won Paralympic Shooting medals at every Games in which the sport has been included.
- Shooting competitions last for between 75 and 120 minutes.
Key facts
Venue: The Royal Artillery Barracks
Dates: Thursday 30 August – Tuesday 4 September
Gold medals up for grabs: 12
Athletes: 140 (100 men, 40 women)
The Paralympic programme includes men’s, women’s and mixed events. The finals of each event involve the top eight shooters in a 10-shot contest that takes place within a set time limit.
The target is made up of 10 scoring rings. The centre ring, known as the bull’s-eye, is worth 10 points, or 10.9 points in finals. Athletes shoot from a variety of positions – standing or sitting, kneeling and prone – at distances of 10m, 25m and 50m. The event requires great reserves of skill and concentration from its competitors.
Shooting at the Games
Shooting has been part of the Paralympic Games since Toronto in 1976, when three events were held. Athletes with different disabilities now compete together in two classes – SH1, for athletes who can support the weight of their firearm themselves, and SH2, for athletes who use a shooting stand to support their arm.
Get involved
Disability Target Shooting Great Britain is keen to help people get started in the sport and can offer advice, training and equipment to anyone who wants to take part. The international governing body is IPC shooting.
Learn more about how to get involved on the Parasport website. You could also visit Paralympic Sport TV.
