USA Triathlon – Do You Know The Race Rules?

Are you a USAT (USA Triathlon) member? Likely if you have done any races from a Sprint to an Ironman, you are either a full member or have been a day member of USAT.

When racing in a USAT sanctioned event, it’s important to know the rules because you can be penalized for rule violations. Being familiar with the USAT Official Rules will prevent you from getting a penalty. It only makes sense that you know the rules of your sport.

To read the entire rulebook, visit:

http://www.usatriathlon.org/resources/about-events/rules

Here are a few of the main rules to be familiar with:

1. TRANSITION AREA: All equipment must be placed in the properly designated and individually assigned bike corral. The wheel of the bicycle must be down on the side of the assigned space. All participants must return their bicycles to an upright position in their designated bicycle corral. No person shall interfere with another participant’s equipment or impede the progress of another participant. All bar ends must be solidly plugged. No participant shall bring ANY glass containers into the transition area.

Penalty: Variable time penalty.

2. HELMETS: Only helmets approved by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSO) may be used in USAT-sanctioned events. Helmets must be worn at all times while on your bike. This means before, during, and after the event.

Penalty: Disqualification

3. CHIN STRAPS: Must be buckled at all times when on a bicycle. DO NOT unbuckle your chin strap unless you are off your bicycle.

Penalty: Disqualification on the course; Variable time penalty in transition area only.

4. OUTSIDE ASSISTANCE: No assistance other than that offered by race and medical officials may be used. Triathlons and duathlons are individual test of fitness.

Penalty: Variable time penalty.