In Paralympic para swimming, the classification prefix SB identifies breaststroke events.
The prefix appears before a number that indicates the swimmer’s sport class. For example, SB9 refers to a breaststroke class, while S9 is used for freestyle, backstroke and butterfly events. The number reflects the swimmer’s functional classification rather than a finishing position or age group.
The separate prefixes help officials and viewers distinguish strokes because a swimmer’s eligible class can differ between disciplines. The individual medley uses the prefix SM, combining the relevant swimming classifications. This system is why Paralympic results often show entries such as S10, SB9 or SM10 rather than one universal class.
A common mix-up is treating SB as the swimmer’s entire classification. It is specifically the stroke prefix; the number that follows is essential to the full event designation. Para swimming classification is designed to group athletes with comparable activity limitations for fair competition.