USAT Rules Straight Talk Summary :
Below are the major rules often violated by triathlon participants. Since this is a USAT sanctioned event, we are required to follow their rules. For those of you that want to see the official USAT Common Violations go here: http://www.usatriathlon.org/about-multisport/rulebook.aspx. Otherwise, here is a recap :
1. Helmet – Wear it. It must be strapped and bucked BEFORE you get on the bike and BEFORE you exit the transition zone. Don’t unbuckle the strap unless you are off the bike.
Penalty – Disqualification/Time Penalty
2. No Help From Others – Only help allowed is from race officials or the medical team. If you get a flat – you get to fix it.
Penalty – Variable Time penalty
3. Transition Area – You have an area to put your stuff. Don’t mess with others people stuff. Make sure your equipment is safe, such as no glass containers, etc.
Penalty – Variable Time penalty
4. Bike Drafting/Blocking – Don’t do it. Keep 3 bicycle lengths between you and the bike in front of you. Pass within 15 seconds. Don’t block others from passing you.
Penalty – Variable Time penalty
5. Course – No Cheating. Stay on the course. Know the course. Or suffer the consequences
Penalty – Referee’s discretion (in other words, you’re gonna be in BIG trouble!!!!)
6. Don’t be a Jerk – No bad language, act like your Grandma is standing next to you, assuming she is a good example of good behavior.
7. No MP3 Players –We all know music makes it easier for us to run and do stuff. That’s why most of us listen to it while training. However, while participating in the triathlon, you CAN’T USE or WEAR an mp3 player, iPod, Walkman, headset, phone that plays music, headphones, etc. If you cannot hear other racers, you risk being a hazardous to yourself and others on the trail.
Penalty – Variable Time penalty
8. Show Race Number – Race numbers on the run should be worn in front. If you have it pinned to your back, finish the race running backwards so we can see the number.
Penalty – Variable Time penalty/Disqualification
9. Wetsuits – Not required at this time—this may change as we get more clarification with the race insurance policy which is dependent on the temperature of the lake —plan on using a wet suits. That is the safe answer .
