Overview

The USABA was formed in 1976 to promote athletic competition for individuals of any age who are visually impaired or blind. Its mission is to organize such competitions while working to change the misconceptions of the general population about the abilities of persons who are blind and visually impaired. There are USABA chapters in most states, with more than 1,500 members throughout the country.

Eligibility

Eligibility for USABA programs requires a minimum visual acuity of 20/200 or less or a field of vision of 20^o or less. Visual acuity refers to distance vision. A person with 20/200 vision can see at 20 feet what a normally sighted person can see at 200 feet. Field of vision refers to the area a person can see without moving the eyes or head. A 20^o field of vision is comparable to looking through a peephole in a door.

Classification

Athletes are classified for competition according to the amount of usable vision. Classification is conducted by optometrists or ophthalmologists. There are three classifications: B1-no usable vision; B2-low vision; and B3-visually impaired. Athletes compete against people with the same visual classifications except in goalball, wrestling, and powerlifting.

Age/Gender Groups

Athletes with visual impairments are divided by gender and age in selected sports.

Sports

Major Competitions

The major international competitions for USABA athletes are the quadrennial summer and winter Paralympic Games. Other opportunities include the world championships and other international events sanctioned by the International Paralympic Committee and the multi-sport world championships conducted by the International Blind Sports Association (IBSA). In addition, USABA conducts competitions and camps at the local, regional, and national levels.

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