For anyone who is going to participate in a triathlon it is important to understand the rules before the event takes place. You can be disqualified if you don’t follow the rules and that would be very disappointing considering all of the training and hard work that goes into preparing for a triathlon.
While some of the specifics may vary by triathlon event the overall rules remain the same. They are in place to help promote good sportsmanship, to reward individuals for their abilities, and to keep the events safe for everyone who participates as well as for the spectators of the event. Here are some of the basic rules for you to become familiar with.
If the triathlon is sponsored by the USA Triathlon program then each participant must have a current membership in order to participate. If there is a deadline for registering participants must submit their information. Late entries are not accepted and there are no exceptions to that rule. For personal safety individuals can only participate in those triathlons at their level of ability.
Each participant in a triathlon is expected to complete the entire race unless an injury or unforeseen circumstances arise. Each participant is expected to be a good sport before, during, and after the event. There are penalties for obstructing someone else from being able to participate. You can be disqualified from event if the referee sees fit. In most instances a time penalty will be added to your overall finishing time for the event.
There are specific rules for assistance during the triathlon from people on your team. Make sure you find out what they are for the event you are participating in. These rules include how and when they can hand you a towel or a drink. In most instances you have to leave the course to take care of such issues and then return to the point where you exited.
During the swimming part of the competition the participants can use any combination of strokes they prefer. All participants are asked to wear a colored swim cap that is assigned to them. Goggles are allowed if the individual wants to use them. For the bicycling portion of the event the bike can only be propelled by the force of the participant. A helmet must be worn during this portion of the triathlon.
In the running portion of the event it is acceptable to alternate running and walking as long as the entire distance is covered. A triathlon can be a great challenge and plenty of fun but make sure you take the time to know the rules for the event as well.
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