Summary
The article discusses the limited representation of women in Para-ice hockey at the Winter Paralympics, despite the events being labeled as 'mixed' gender. Only one woman, Akari Fukunishi from Japan, will compete out of 135 athletes in the current Games. There are ongoing discussions about the need for a separate women's event to improve gender parity.
Key Facts
- The Winter Paralympics in Milan-Cortina have 135 Para-ice hockey competitors, with only one woman, Akari Fukunishi, competing.
- The term "mixed event" allows for women but does not guarantee their selection, as seen in Para-ice hockey.
- Since the sport's Paralympic debut 32 years ago, only four women have been selected to compete.
- Kelsey DiClaudio, a top female Para-ice hockey player, argues for a separate women's event to ensure participation.
- In Milan-Cortina, 26.1% of athletes are women, an increase from previous Games but still short of gender parity.
- Team USA and Team Canada have never included a woman in their Paralympic Para-ice hockey squads.
- Some sports, like wheelchair curling, have better female participation due to rules requiring mixed-gender teams.
- The IPC aims for gender parity but recognizes that mixed events currently provide limited opportunities for women.
