Men’s individual pursuit, women’s individual pursuit
Men’s individual 1km time trial, women’s individual 1km time trial
Men’s individual pursuit , women’s individual pursuit
Women’s individual 500m time trial
Mixed team sprint
Classes
B: Athletes who are blind and visually impaired
C 1-5: Athletes with cerebral palsy, limb impairments and amputations.
H 1-4: Athletes using handcycles, with lower limb dysfunctions and limited
stability
T 1-2: Athletes on tricycles, who have severe locomotive dysfunctions and
limited ability to pedal
Gold medals available
18
Tactics and techniques
Stamina and power may be elementary to this discipline, but it also owes much
to tactics. Occupying a good position before the final sprint can make the
difference, as can the amount of time spent in the slip-stream – the
position just behind another back wheel.
Team events are, naturally, about solid team work. Riders will switch the
front man several times to share the burden, with such changes requiring
perfect execution not to waste time or energy. Other factors include
aerodynamic equipment, good tyres and an effective sitting position.
Watch
Facts (and phrases)
The road cycling may have been introduced in 1984 but it took 12 more years
before the track was opened to tandem cycles.
The London 2012 Paralympics will host as many as 18 events. That is good news
for Britain, who dominated track cycling in Beijing 2008 with 12 gold
medals. With a brand new velodrome designed to increase the speed, it could
prove to be a gold mine once again.
Legends
Britain’s own Darren Kenny remains a prolific figure, and not without reason.
The Salisbury man won four individual gold medals – two each in Athens and
Beijing – and was awarded an MBE in 2009.
British stars
Anthony Kappes, Mark Bristow, Jody Cundy, Aileen McGlynn and Sarah Storey are
all expected to impress.
British chances
Good, to say the least. Having won more than half the gold medals on offer in
Beijing, Britain is expected to dominate. Cycling was Britain’s second most
successful sport in 2008, and will be a cornerstone in building a lasting
legacy in Paralympic sport.
International rivals
Australia, though in terms of the total medal haul, they shouldn’t be anywhere
near.
Schedule
August 30 – September 2
Venue