Achilles Melbourne encourages inclusion in a range of community sporting events, advocating for opportunities that allow all individuals, irrespective of their abilities, to participate. We recognise that individual opinion from some athletes express the need for the introduction of an adaptive athlete classification in community running events to allow their individual efforts to be recognised against others with similar disability.
Achilles Melbourne respects the individual decision of event organisers to consider whether a classification system is suitable for their event.
Whilst we have many competitive members capable of excellence at the highest levels, our organisation is not focused on competition but participation. We instead seek to work with event organisers to improve access to their events, remove barriers to participation and see more people taking part.
In conclusion, Achilles Melbourne stands in favour of efforts that promote inclusivity in community running events and support the participation of adaptive athletes with or without the need for classification.
