| Site Map Feedback Search Login 
Triathlon Triathlon
Triathlon NZ National Series Memberships
Select
Overview
Event Registration
Contact Tri Series
Technical Officials/Volunteers
Technical Advisory Group Members
Event Sanctioning & Endorsement
ITU Competition Rules
Tri NZ Competition Rules
Technical Official Pathway
Funding for Technical Officials
Technical Newsletters
Contact Duathlon Series
Results
National Championships
Triathlon NZ Competition Rules
Event Sanctioning
South Island Club Challenge Triathlon Series
Register your Event
Latest News
2/09/2010
Call for Applications - Age Group Selection Commission
1/09/2010
Sam Warriner looking for Sweat7 athletes - NO ELITES PLEASE!
1/09/2010
Contact Tri Series back for another big summer
26/08/2010
Simone Ackerman finishes second in Korea in tough conditions
Read More>>

Events
22/08/2010
Friendly Dental Ironkids Duathlon Series
22/08/2010
Contact Duathlon Series - Christchurch
29/08/2010
JD Duathlons Race #2 “The Equaliser”
5/09/2010
Friendly Dental VLK (Very Low Key) Duathlon Series
12/09/2010
Friendly Dental Ironkids Duathlon Series
3/10/2010
Kapiti Harrier and Multisport Club Duathlon Series 2010
10/10/2010
Friendly Dental Ironkids Duathlon Series
10/10/2010
Williams Harvey Charity Corporate Duathlon
Read More >>

Tri NZ Competition Rules - Effective 15 December 2008

 

Scroll down or click on the headings below to view the Triathlon NZ Competition Rules

 

To download a copy of the Triathlon NZ Competition Rules please click here

 

 

Introduction ______________________________________________________________ Para. 1

 

Distances for Categories____________________________________________________ Para. 2

 

Age Groups & Competitor Categories__________________________________________Para. 3

 

Penalties for Rule Infringements______________________________________________ Para. 4

 

Rules of Conduct of Competitors  ____________________________________________ Para. 5

 

Transition: Conduct, Rules & Penalties  _______________________________________ Para. 6

 

Swimming: Conduct, Rules & Penalties   ______________________________________ Para. 7

 

Cycling: Conduct, Rules & Penalties   ________________________________________  Para. 8

 

Running: Conduct, Rules & Penalties__________________________________________ Para. 9

 

Multi-sport: Special, Conduct, Rules & Penalties  _______________________________  Para. 10

 

Skiing    Conduct, Rules & Penalties__________________________________________ Para. 11

 

Race Officials, Definition, Duties______________________________________________ Para. 12

 

Discipline of Competitors____________________________________________________ Para. 13

 

Protests_________________________________________________________________  Para. 14

 

Appeals__________________________________________________________________ Para. 15

 

Doping Control Regulations__________________________________________________  Para. 16

 

Notified Rule Changes______________________________________________________  Para. 17

 

 

 

1.          INTRODUCTION

 

1.1.       Competition Rules:

The official Tri NZ rules which govern the competition for triathlon, duathlon and multisport which fall within the jurisdiction of Tri NZ.

 

These rules are intended to:

a)    Provide safety and protection;

b)    Penalise competitors who gain an unfair advantage;

c)    Create an atmosphere of sportsmanship, equality and fair play;

d)    Endorse the principle that triathlon is an individual sport and encourage performance and initiative.

 

1.2               Modifications to the interpretation of the rules:

a)    A competitor is not permitted an advantage not intended by a rule and shall be penalised if any unfair advantage occurs, even if the advantage occurs outside of the specifics referred to in these rules.

b)    It is important to know the intent and purpose of a rule so that it may be intelligently applied in a given situation.

c)    A competitor is not permitted to bring the sport into disrepute by any action.

 

Description of Sports

 

1.3        Triathlon:


The ITU term for a sport of individual character and motivation which combines and three of swimming, cycling, running, mountain biking and skiing skills in continuum and in any order

 

1.4        Duathlon:

 

The ITU term for a sport of individual character and motivation which combines and two of swimming, cycling, running, mountain biking and skiing skills in continuum and in any order

 

 

1.5        Multisport:


A sport of individual character and motivation which combines any combination of canoeing/kayaking, swimming, cycling, running, mountain biking, and skiing skills in continuum and in any order.

 

2.          STANDARD DISTANCE CATEGORIES


Tri NZ has the following standard distances (in kilometres)

 

2.1

           

Triathlon

Swim (km)

Cycle (km)

Run (km)

MTB (km)

Ski (km)

[Summer]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Children

0.1

4

1

 

 

Youth

0.4

10

3

 

 

Sprint

0.75

20

5

 

 

Olympic

1.5

40

10

 

 

Long

2 or shorter

120 or shorter

30 or shorter

 

 

Ultra

3 or longer

100 or longer

30 or longer

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[Winter]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Olympic

-

-

7-9

 12-14

10-12

Youth/school

-

-

2

10

5

 

2.2

                   

Duathlon

Run (km)

Cycle (km

Run (km)

 

 

 

 

Children

0.4

3

0.4

Youth

2

10

2

Sprint

5 or shorter

30 or shorter

5.0 or shorter

International

10

40

5

Ultra

10 or longer

60 or longer

10 or longer

                   

2.3

 

Multisport Distance

Canoe/Kayak (km)

Bike (km)

Run (km)

 

 

 

 

Youth

2 or shorter

10 or shorter

2 or shorter

Sprint

5 or shorter

40 or shorter

10 or shorter

Standard

5

40

10

Long

5 or longer

40 or longer

10 or longer

 

Secondary School Distances - these are recommended distances and may be varied slightly from time to time due to course restrictions.

 

2.4

                   

Triathlon

Swim (km)

Cycle (km)

Run (km)

Year 7

0.1 – 0.15

6-8

1.5-2

Year 8

0.15-0.2

8

1.5-2

Under 14

0.350

10-12

2.5-3

Under 16

.500

15

3.5-4

Under 19

.750

20

5

 

2.5

                   

Duathon

Run (km)

Cycle (km)

Run (km)

Year 7

2

6-8

1

Year 8

2

8

2

Under 14

2.5

10

2.5

Under 16

3.5

15

2.5

Under 19

5

20

5

 

2.6

 

Multisport

Kayak (km)

Cycle (km)

Run (km)

Under 14

2

10

3

Under 16

3

15

4

Under 19

4

20

5

 

                   

3.          RULES FOR COMPETITOR CATEGORIES

3.1               Age Group Categories: 

 

a)    Age group allocation shall be determined by age on 31 December in year of competition except school, college and junior competitions where the appropriate age groupings shall apply being the student’s age on January 1 of the year of the competition.

b)    The categories for age group competitors in Championship events are:

 

            i. Children, under 13 years old                ii. 13, 14 and 15 years old 

            iii. 16 and 17 years old                           iv. 18 and 19 years old

 

c)    From the age of 20, Championship events shall be conducted in 5 year age groups:

 

            i.          20 - 24 years                             ii.          25 - 29 years

            iii.         30 - 34 years                             iv.         35 - 39 years

            v.          40 - 44 years                             vi.         45 - 49 years

            vii.        50 - 54 years                             viii.        55 - 59 years

            ix.         60 - 64 years                             x.         65 - 69 years

            xi.         70 – 74 years                            xii         75 – 79 years

            xiii        80 – 84 years                            xiv        85 – 89 years

            xv         90 – 94 years                            xvi        95 – 99 years

 

d)    Sanctioned Non-Championship and Approved events may be run in 10 year age groupings:

 

            i.          Under 20 years old                     ii.          20 - 29 years

            iii.         30 - 39 years                             iv.         40 - 49 years

            v.          50 - 59 years                             vi.         60 - 69 years

            vii.        70 – 79 years                            viii         80 – 89 years

            ix          90 – 99 years

 

e)    School and College events age groups at 1 January:

 

i. Year 7                                    ii. Year 8          

iii. Under 14                               iv. Under 16  

v. Under 19  [No competitor over 19 on 1 January]

 

3.2               Elite Category

 

Elite competitors at ITU events are those who hold a professional membership and are recognized by the ITU. They must be a member in good standing of their National Federation. Members of Triathlon New Zealand Inc may be selected into this category by the High Performance Commission on a selection policy notified to the members annually. At New Zealand competition events special selection races may be held for this category. Selection races for ITU Junior under 23 Olympic World Championship and 16-19 Junior Sprint World Championships will be in accordance with ITU Rule H.1.2 and H.1.3 with eligibility being as per ITU Rule B.4.1, and B.

 

 

3.3               Minimum age of competitors [except school events] in year of competition, on 31 December shall be:


      
a)

 

     Event

Distance (km)

National

   International

i. Sprint Course

S 0.75

B 20

R 5

13 years

16 years [See ITU rules B.4 for full details]

ii. Olympic

S 1.5

B 40

R 10

16 years

18 years

iii. Long Course

S 2

B 120

R 30

18 years

 

iv. Ultra Course

S 3

B 100

R 30

18 years

 

v. Winter Triathlon

R 3-4

M B 5-6

Sk 5-6

16 years

 

 

 

b) Exception to age restrictions in Tri NZ Championship races may be granted by the Technical Commission upon application on approved form to Tri NZ. Such application must include written permission by the competitor’s parent(s) or legal guardian, and any support information that may be required and be received by Tri NZ Technical Commission at least one calendar month prior to the competition date.

   

          The minimum age for secondary school events is 12 years on January 1, and competitor must be attending school or be enrolled with NZ Correspondence School both on a full time basis and meeting educational requirements

 

3.4      Prizes and Awards

 

a)   Prize money must be distributed equally to male and female divisions in both amount and depth, but may be limited in depth by the number of competitors in each prize category.

 

b)   Championship medals will be awarded to both male and females who place first, second and third in age groups as set out in rule 3.1 (c).  Plus the first, second and third placed in 13/14/15 year, 16/17 year, 18/19 year age group categories. Where there are  elite categories for male and female, those persons are not eligible for age group medals are but eligible for  overall prizes and medals.

 

c)   At New Zealand school championship events medals will be awarded to all groups in rule 3.1.(e).

 

4.0      PENALTIES FOR RULE INFRINGEMENTS:

 

4.1      Basic penalties

 

           a) Warnings    b)                   Time penalties      c) Disqualification

 

       The application of the above penalties is described in Para. 12, Discipline of Competitors.

 

4.2      Additional penalties

 

           a) Suspension               b)         Expulsion

 

The Appeal Jury shall assess the rule violations that have the above penalties from information supplied by the Race Referee or the New Zealand Drug  Agency.  Tri NZ Board of Management imposes the application of either of these penalties.  Any recommendation for these, shall be implemented by using the same procedures as for Appeals, refer Para. 14.

 

4.3      Failure to comply with the Tri NZ Competition Rules may result in the competitor being warned, given a time penalty, disqualified, suspended or expelled.

 

4.4      A breach of the race rules, in effect, has only one consequence and that is disqualification.  However, because of the complex nature of the sport some penalties that are applied may be less severe. As a guideline for application of the penalties follows:

 

Event

Warning

Time Penalty

Disqualification

 

 

 

 

Children’s Events

Yes

Yes

No

Youth Events

Yes

Yes

Optional

Fun Events

Yes

Yes

Optional

Approved Events

Yes

Yes

Optional

Sanctioned Events

Yes

Yes

Yes

Championship Events

No

Yes

Yes

International Events

No

Yes

Yes

World Championships

No

Yes

Yes

Winter Triathlon

No

Yes

Yes

 

4.5        Only the Referee may exercise the optional penalties.

 

4.6        The time penalty for breaches of the rules must be notified to competitors at race briefing. The following are the time penalties:

                       

Sprint distance     

15 seconds

Olympic       

1.00 minute

Long Distance          

2.00 minutes

Ultra Distance         

4.00 minutes

 

Where a “Sin Bin” or Penalty Compound/Area is operated, the time taken to mark the competitor in the Field of Play is not included in penalty stand down time.

 

4.7        Where a “judgment call” violation occurs (e.g. drafting, blocking,) the ruling may not be “appealed” - refer Para. 12.2 and 13.2

 

5.         RULES OF CONDUCT FOR COMPETITORS:


5.1        Competition Duration

The application of the rules in Paras. 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11 shall commence from the opening of transition or the commencement of race day registration (whichever is the earlier) until completion of prize giving and formalities.

 


5.2         General

Sports covered by these rules may involve many competitors and race tactics are an integral part of the interaction between them.  Competitors make instantaneous decisions based upon their state of conditioning and experience.  However, competitors shall:

 

     a)     Practice good sportsmanship at all times;

     b)     Be responsible for their own safety and the safety of others;

     c)     Be responsible for knowing and following the race rules;

     d)     Obey traffic regulations, within the guidelines of individual race rules;

     e)     Obey instructions from race officials, marshals and members of the N.Z. Police. 

     f)      Treat other competitors, officials, volunteers and spectators with respect and courtesy;

     g)     Avoid the use of abusive language;

     h)    Retire promptly from the competition and report the violation to a race official, if they knowingly violate the rules;

     i)      Inform race officials after withdrawing from the race for any reason;

     j)      Not perform any unsportsmanlike conduct which is judged to be unfair, unethical or dishonest, a violent act, intentional misconduct, abusive language intimidating behavior, persistent infringement of the rules;

     k)     Not accept assistance during the race from anyone other than race officials;

     l)      Re-enter at the point of departure if they have left the course for reasons of safety;

     m)    Wear their unaltered race number provided by the Race Organisers, in the proper way.  Refer Paras. Swimming 7.1 j), Cycling 8.4 a) and b), Running 9.1. f);

     n)     Not leave equipment or discard personal articles on the course.  Tyres, plastic bottles and other discarded items must be placed safely off the course;

     o)    Not wear items deemed to be a hazard to self or others, e.g. a hard cast, jewellery, headsets or headphones;

     p)    Not use unauthorised equipment to provide an advantage or which will be dangerous to others.

 

5.3        Accidental Contact

     a)     The fact that accidental contact occurs between competitors does not constitute a violation.  When several competitors are moving in a limited area, contact may occur.  This incidental contact between competitors in equally favourable positions, is not a violation.

5.4        Health  

     a)     Triathlons and other multisport competitions are strenuous. To be able to compete, competitors should be in excellent physical condition.

     b)     Time limits for the swim and cycle segments plus the overall finish time are:

           

            Sprint: Swim 30 mins/Cycle 1 hr 30 mins after race start, Overall 2 hrs 15 mins.

            Olympic: Swim 1 hour/Cycle 2 hr 30 mins after race start, Overall 3 hrs 45 mins

            Long Course: Swim 1 hr/Cycle 5 hours after race start, Overall 7 hours

            Ultra: Swim 2 hrs 15 mins / Cycle 10 1/2 hours after race start, Overall 17 hours

            Winter Triathlon: Run 1 hour/ MTB 1hr 30 mins/Ski  45 mins. Overall  3hrs 15 mins.                    

            For duathlon the time limits are similar to those applicable in triathlon distances.

 

     For multisport events the Race Director will establish time limits and notify them, both in the entry form and prior to race start.

 

     c)     Tri NZ is against the use of performance enhancing drugs, refer Para. 15.   The use of these is not permitted.

     d)     Any competitor who appears to officials to present a danger to themselves, or to others, may be withdrawn from the competition.  In the event of a competitor being able to re-join the race, Para. 5.2(1) is applicable and no timing allowances will be made.

 


5.5        Pre Race  Registration

 

a)    All competitors must up lift pre-race any timing chips, race numbers and race packs at the time notified on entry form or other race information. Late arrivals must notify the Race director or competition manager and set out circumstances why stated pickup time cannot be met. Late registrations may be denied a race start.

b)    All competitors are required to wear a timing chip if such is provided. Competitor is responsible for loss, but may continue in race if such loss occurs.

 

5.6        Pre-Race Briefing

 

a)    All competitors must attend a pre-race briefing if notified at which race management will advise on any course changes, road problems, or other health and safety issues that competitors need to be aware of. In team events, all team members need to attend so as to be aware of issues pertaining to their segment of the race.

b)    The penalties applicable to the race will be stated at the briefing

c)    In winter triathlons, there is a compulsory meeting of competitors and managers conducted by the Technical Delegate or Race Referee. All competitors must attend since this briefing deals with mountain safety.

d)    In winter triathlons all Technical Officials must attend this briefing as well as a training session specific to the Field of Play for the race, and team coaches and captains will attend as well. Non attendance will result in no race start.

 

6.         TRANSITION AREA RULES:

6.1   Definitions

a)      Course: A forward line of progress from start to finish which must be clearly marked and measured to announced specifications.

b)      Transition: A location where a course  segment begins and/or ends and where the competitors’ equipment is stored.

 

 

6.2   General Rules of Conduct (Transition)

a)      Competitors must use only their designated bicycle area.

b)      Competitors must not interfere with another competitor’s equipment in the transition area.

c)      Nudity is forbidden.

d)      Competitors must dismount their bicycle at the designated area or line.

e)      Competitors must rack their own bicycle, unless alternative arrangements have been notified at the pre-race meeting.

f)        A competitor must not deliberately impede or obstruct the progress of another.

g)      Personal items shall not extend beyond the outside wheel of the competitors cycle at any time during the race

h)      Helmet must be fitted and fastened before bike is removed from the rack, and on return must remain fitted and fastened until bike is re-racked

 

        Winter Triathlon specific;

 

i)        Rules 6.2 (a), (b), (c), (d), (f), (h) all apply.           

j)        Competitors must use the designated position for mountain bike and skis.

k)      Where there is carpet or other dry surface for gear/equipment changes, such surface/material must remain unaltered.

l)        Race management will provide racks for both mountain bike and skis and covers for clothing etc to keep it dry.

m)    Competitors must rack own bike and uplift their own skis, unless alternative arrangements have been advised prior to race start, wherein a Technical Official may assist competitors by receiving and placing their bicycles and handing out their equipment. This service must be the same for all competitors.

n)      Skiing inside the Transition area is forbidden

o)      No competitor on race day may warm up or reconnaissance of the course while a race is in progress

 

        Failure to observe these transition rules may result in disqualification or time penalty

 

7.     SWIMMING CONDUCT:

7.1   Swim Equipment Rules

a)      Wetsuit thickness must not exceed 5mm.

b)      The wearing of wetsuit bottoms only is prohibited.

c)      The upper and lower temperature limits for the use of wetsuits shall be according to the following table:

Swim length

Forbidden above

Mandatory at  or below

Maximum stay in water

 

 

 

 

Age groups

 

 

 

1500m or less

22°C

14°C

1 hr 10 min

1501m to 3000m

23°C

15°C

1 hr 40 min

3001m to 4000m

24°C

16°C

2 hr 15 min

 

 

 

 

Elite and under 23 athletes

 

 

 

1500m

20°C

14°C

30 min

 

 

 

 

Elite Junior at sprint

 

 

 

750 m

20°C

14°C

20 min

 

d)      If changing weather conditions dictate, the Referee may waive the limits on wetsuit use.

e)      A ruling on wetsuit use shall be made one (1) day before the start of the race by the Tri NZ Referee and shall be clearly communicated to the competitors.

f)        Wetsuits of any kind must not be worn when water temperatures are above the upper limited for wetsuit use. [7.1. c) above].  If an athlete chooses to wear a second suit, eg a speedsuit, it must be worn underneath their race uniform.  On Olympic Distance races and shorter for all categories, if they wear a second suit, it cannot be removed at any time during the competition.

g)      It is compulsory to wear a wetsuit when water temperatures are colder than those for mandatory wetsuit use. [7.1 c) above].

h)      A competitor must wear a swim cap.  If one is provided by the race organization, that cap must be worn outermost.  If the swim cap is lost unintentionally during the swimming segment of the race, the competitor may not be penalised.

i)        Artificial propulsion devices, e.g. fins, socks, gloves, paddles or flotation devices, are prohibited.

j)        At all national championships, and any international or World Championship race, the swim cap shall show the competitors race number on both sides in print no less than 40mm high.

k)      For safety reasons the minimum allowed water temperatures for swimming are as follows:

        1500m or less…………..12°C

        1501m – 3000m……….. 13°C

        3001m – 4000m……….. 14°C

 


7.2   Swim Rules  

 

a)      Competitors may use any stroke to propel themselves through the water. They may also tread water or float.

b)      A competitor may stand on the bottom or rest by holding an inanimate object such as a buoy or a stationary boat. However, a competitor may not make use of that inanimate object to gain an advantage.  Dolphin diving in shallow water is permitted.                                   

c)      A competitor must follow the prescribed course and round all buoys, or markers, to complete the course.

d)      A competitor may not deliberately impede or obstruct the progress of another.

e)      In an emergency, a competitor should raise an arm overhead and call for assistance.  Once official assistance is rendered, the competitor is disqualified from the competition except as referred to in Para. 7.2 b) above.

f)        Competitors may assist each other at undoing wetsuit zips but must undress and redress themselves in the individual nature of the sport.

g)      Spectators are not allowed to help after race start.

h)      Failure to observe these rules may result in disqualification

 

8.     CYCLING CONDUCT  (not for winter triathlons)

8.1   Cycling Equipment

a)     Cycles must have the following characteristics:

 

                          i.      No more than two (2) metres long and 750mm wide;

                         ii.      Measure at least 240mm from the ground to the centre of the chain wheel axle;

                       iii.      A vertical line touching the front most point of the saddle will be no more than 5 cm in front of and no more than 150 mm behind a vertical line passing through the centre of the chain wheel axle and a competitor must not have the capability of adjusting the saddle beyond these lines during competition (Appendix 1.);

                      iv.      Measure no less than 540mm and no more than 540 - 650mm between a vertical line passing through the centre of the chain wheel axle and a vertical line through the centre of the front axle wheel. (Exceptions may be given for the bicycles of very tall or very short competitors);

                        v.      Have only two wheels; except in AWAD events this rule does not apply.

                      vi.      The front wheel may be a different diameter than the rear wheel, but must be of spoke construction.  Covers are allowed on the rear wheel.  These provisions may be changed by the Referee in the interest of safety, (e.g. high winds);

                     vii.      Handlebar ends must be plugged, tyres well glued, headsets tight and wheels true;

                   viii.      Each wheel must have a brake.

                       ix.      Handlebar add-ons must be positioned so as to minimise injury in the event of a crash or collision with other competitors or spectators. Ends must be plugged or bridged.

                        x.      Mountain bikes are permitted in appropriate races, but no bar end extensions are permitted on handle bar.

                       xi.      In a drafting race for age groupers 8.1 (b) iii, iv, v and vi will apply.  No wheel covers are permitted for draft legal competitions and wheels must have at least 12 spokes.

 

            Special requirements for school event competitors:

 

                     xii.      In school championships, disc wheels, tri spokes, wheel covers or deep rimmed wheels over 45mm [when measured from rim edge] are not permitted.

                    xiii.      All wheels must have a minimum of 12 spokes

                   xiv.      Tri bars/ aero bars are permitted.

 

b)         Cycles for Elite and Junior competitors (either nominated or seeking nomination in those divisions in Triathlon or Duathlon World Cup Series, or Triathlon or Duathlon World Championships), when participating in New Zealand races that have a drafting section in them, shall have the following characteristics:

 

                    i.      No more than two (2) metres long and (50) centimetres wide;

                   ii.      Handlebars must be traditional "drop" style.

                 iii.      "Clip-ons" will be permitted provided they do not extend more than 15 cm beyond the front wheel axle, and they are not longer than the brake levers' foremost line.

                iv.      Straight forward clip-on handlebars must be bridged with a solid material, and must not carry forward facing brake levers

                  v.      No forward facing bar or gear shifters are allowed on the end of the clip-ons.  Grip shifters are permitted.

                vi.      Elbow pads are permitted. 

               vii.      No wheel covers are permitted for draft legal competitions and wheels must have at least 12 spokes.  Both wheels should be either 26” or 28”.  Only wheels approved by UCI may be used.


8.2   Illegal Equipment

a)          Headphone or headset. are prohibited

b)          Glass containers are prohibited.

c)          Farings, which reduce air resistance, are prohibited.

d)          No wheel may contain mechanisms, which are capable of accelerating it.

 

8.3   Cycling Helmets - are compulsory

 

a)    The helmet must be approved by an officially recognised testing authority, i.e.:

     • American National Standard  ASTM F1447-1994

     • Snell Memorial Foundations B90 or B95

     • Both  New Zealand  and Australian standard  AS/NZS 2063:1996, NZS 5439 or     AS2063.2 or    CE   complying with European standard EN 1078                                   

     • Other standards announced by Tri NZ in the interim to revision of these rules.

b)    Alteration to the helmet is forbidden (except for the insertion and replacement of cushioned fitting strips).

c)    The helmet must be securely fastened at all times when the competitor is in control of the cycle from when the cycle is un-racked until it is re-racked. It must be properly worn when riding to the race.

d)    The helmet must fit the competitor’s head firmly, and not be able to be rolled around; or worn with no protection to the forehead, or impede the competitor’s line of sight.

 

THE ROAD CODE REQUIRES THAT A CYCLE HELMET BE WORN AT ALL TIMES THE CYCLIST IS ON A ROAD

 

8.4   Cycling Rules

a)      The competitor’s race number shall show to the rear while on the cycle, where it can be easily read by a person standing behind the competitor.

b)      For National Championships and International events cycles shall be numbered with the competitor’s number across the cycle framework, beneath the seat, on the right hand side of the bike in print no less than 40mm deep.

c)      Competitors may wear no less than normal racing swim gear, provided also that the upper torso of all competitors shall be covered with a garment that extends to at least 50mm below the nipple line.

d)      A competitor must obey traffic laws (Road Code) unless otherwise directed by an identified road marshal or police officer.

e)      Competitors who have established the right-of-way must not block others.

f)        A competitor may not deliberately impede or obstruct the progress of another (particularly with an abrupt motion).  In the drafting rules this is referred to as a “block”.

g)      The competitor must follow the prescribed course including riding within the bounds of coned areas.

h)      Tyres, plastic bottles and other items must not be discarded on the course.

 

8.5   Drafting
a)          Drafting off another competitor or motor vehicle is forbidden.  Competitors must reject attempts by others to draft. b)          A competitor is entitled to any position on the course, provided they get to that position first, and without contacting others.  When taking a position, a competitor must allow reasonable space for others to make normal movements without making contact.  Adequate space must be available before passing;
c)           A competitor, who approaches from any position to take advantage of the draft, bears responsibility for avoiding the draft.
d)                  To draft is to enter the bicycle or vehicle drafting zone:

                                                                          i.      Bicycle draft zone: the draft zone will be a rectangle 3 meters wide.  The centre of the leading 3-meter edge will be measured from the leading edge of the front wheel. The long of the rectangle is 7 meters for all categories.

                                                                         ii.      A competitor may enter the draft zone of another competitor, but must be seen to be progressing through that zone.  A maximum of 15 seconds will be allowed to pass through the zone of another competitor;

                                                                       iii.      Vehicle draft zone (including motorbikes) will be a rectangle thirty-five (35) meters long by five (5) meters wide, which surrounds every vehicle on the cycle segment.  The front edge of the vehicle will define the center of the leading 5 meter edge of the rectangle;

e)                  Entry into the bicycle drafting zone:

A competitor may enter a bicycle draft zone (subject to the official’s judgment) in the following circumstances:

                                                                          i.      If the competitor enters the draft zone, and progresses through it within 15 seconds in the overtaken manoeuvre.

                                                                         ii.      For safety reasons;

                                                                       iii.      100 meters before and after an aid station;

                                                                        iv.      50 meters before and after the transition area;

                                                                         v.      At an acute turn;

                                                                        vi.      If technical officials exclude a section of the course because of narrow lanes, construction, detours, or for other safety reasons.

f)                  Overtaking definition:

                                                                          i.      A competitor is passed when another competitor's front wheel is ahead of theirs;

                                                                         ii.      Once overtaken, a competitor must move out of the draft zone of the leading competitor within 15 seconds.

                                                                       iii.      Competitors must keep to the side of the course and not create a blocking incidence.  Blocking is where a competitor(s) behind cannot pass due to the leading competitor being poorly placed on the course.

See the diagrams below for events where left hand side road rules apply.

8.6   Penalties for Drafting

 

a)                      When assessed a yellow card, the competitor will stop in a safe manner and follow the instructions of the Technical Official;

 

b)                      If on a bicycle, the competitor will stop in a safe manner, dismount to the outside of the course with both feet on one side of the bicycle, and follow the instructions of the Technical Official;

 

c)                      The Technical Official will then say "GO", at which time the competitor will continue in a safe manner.

 

 

8.7   CYCLING CONDUCT - Winter triathlons

 

a)      Only mountain bikes can be used in winter triathlons.

b)      The minimal tyre dimension for the mountain bike should not be less than 26 x 1.5 inches( 599-40) which means that the largest part of the tyres should not be less than 40mm

c)      Cleated and/or slick tyres are allowed depending on the ground surface

d)      The cycling segment of Winter Triathlon Competitions is laid out as a cross-country course over snow and may follow normal roads or path

e)      Competitors are allowed to push or carry the bicycle over part of the course [not all].

f)        Drafting is allowed, but it may be forbidden to pass other competitors before entering the transition area

g)      Competitors are personally responsible for ensuring that their bicycles are in legally satisfactory condition at the start of the race

h)      Competitors must bring their own necessary tools and parts and must carry out repairs.

i)        Competitors are not allowed to receive help from others; either from fellow competitors or outside helpers

j)        All bicycle parts can be changed in transition area during the course of competition except the frame itself.

k)      Simple repairs can be carried out on the course but other repairs and changes must be done in the Transition Area.

l)        Bicycle shoes are mandatory

m)    Bicycle helmets as for summer triathlons or skiing/snow boarding helmets must be worn throughout the cycle segment only. All helmets must carry NZ or approved American or other safety standard sticker.

n)      No aero bars (or similar) are permitted on the bike.

o)      Competitors must mount and dismount  on designated line

p)      Riding in transition area is not permitted

 

9.     RUNNING CONDUCT:

9.1   General Rules   [Summer triathlons and duathlons and school events]

a)      The competitor may run or walk.

b)      The competitor may not crawl.

c)      Competitors may wear no less than normal racing swim gear, provided also that upper torso of all competitors shall be covered with a garment that extends to at least 50mm below the nipple line. Running shoes must be worn.

d)      The competitor must follow the prescribed course including running within the bounds of coned areas.

e)      A competitor may not deliberately impede or obstruct the progress of another (particularly with intentional swerving or an abrupt motion).

f)        During the run segment the number must be worn on the front torso.

g)      A competitor must not have running company, pacing or drafting other than another competitor.

h)     Running spikes are not permitted.

 

9.2   Illegal Equipment

a)      Headphone or headsets are not permitted.

b)      Glass containers are not permitted.

 

9.3      Winter Triathlon Specific

a)      Rules 9.1 (d),(e),(f) and rules 9.2 apply.

b)      Running shoes are mandatory

c)      Running shoes with spikes are permitted

d)      A helmet must not be worn during the running segment

 

10.   KAYAK CONDUCT:

 

10.1 Kayak Equipment

 

a)    Racing Classes and Categories (examples)

Class

Division

Names of Some Types of Boat

K1

I

Olympic class, Tiger, Tiger XSting, Woodpecker, Jaguar, Cheaver X, Rikan, Gaybo

K1

II

Sprinter, Hunter, Lancer, Invader, Arrow, Swift

Innovative

I

Advantage, Evolution, Edge Genesis, JKK, Excalibur, Apteryx, All Skis, Pinnacle, Defender, Sling Shot

Innovative

II

Eliminator, Esprit, Triton, Peppin, Destiny, Intrigue, Barracuda (single),

DRR-King, Vision, UFO, etc TK1's - Vecta, Mirage, Taipan, Viper

Recreational

 

Sea Kayaks - Puffins, Nordkapp, Sea Bears Plastic - Venturers,

Spectrum

 

 

 









b)     Buoyancy aids/air bags must be securely fastened within hull for Grade 2 or 3conditions.

c)     A Race Director may limit the types of craft that can participate in the event.

                       

10.2 Illegal Equipment

a)    Any form of propulsion other than paddle.

b)    Any glass containers.

         

 

10.3 Kayak Helmets - approved hard shell type designed specifically for kayaking

a)    The helmet must fit the competitor's head.

b)    The helmet must be securely fastened at all times when in use.

c)    While compulsory on grade II rivers and stony bed rivers, it may be dispensed with at other times except where required by the Race Director.

d)    The Race Director may require use if conditions have changed since original notification was given.

 

10.4 Personal Buoyancy Aids

 

a)    All competitors must wear an approved buoyancy aid that meets NZ Safety Standard and is capable of supporting 7kg minimum.

b)    Throughout the competition, the buoyancy aid must remain permanently fastened.

c)    Spray skirts must be fitted and remain fastened for the duration of the race.

 

10.5 Kayaking Rules

 

a)    Race bib, where issued, with competitor's number shall be worn over buoyancy and throughout the segment.

b)    Race numbers for kayaks shall be stuck to deck of kayak in front of cockpit for viewing from side of boat as determined by the Race Director.

c)    Race officials may withdraw competitors from the course at any time if, in their opinion, the competitor's personal health, welfare or safety are at risk.

d)    A competitor may be withdrawn from the race by a race official if a time limitation for that segment has been exceeded.

e)    Rules of the sea apply at all times, whether on sea, lake or river.

f)      No outside assistance is permitted at any time or on any part of the course, except in transition.  Outside assistance will result in disqualification.

g)    Unless permitted and notified by the Race Director to the competitors prior to the start, repairs assistance to broken rudder, gear or lost gear requires withdrawal from the race unless fixed by competitor alone.  Any outside help is deemed assistance and disqualification results.

h)    Wash hanging from either:  stem, stern or side-by-side is prohibited.  Competitors must maintain 3m gaps between stern of craft in front and their craft's bow and a 2m space either side of craft, as clear water.  Time penalty applicable to event will be announced prior to start of event and will be a minimum of a 2 minute time adjustment to a maximum of a 4 minute time adjustment.  A second offence during event results in DQ.

i)      Protests against wash hanging, may be filed to Referee by another competitor or observer  using appropriate "Protest" form.

j)      All competitors must be able to effect self-rescue.  Those unable to satisfy this rule will not be permitted to start.

k)    Where the race is on a grade II river the race director may require a competence certificate.

 

10.6 Entry Form Detail

 

a)    Must contain information as to grade of river and anticipated water conditions

b)    Minimum ability grade to be set.

c)    Equipment permitted.

d)    Safety requirements to be met

e)    Transition assistance permitted.

f)      Need, or otherwise, of first aid materials to be carried.

g)    Event cut-off times.

 

10.7 Kayak/Canoe Transition Zone

 

a)    The zone area must be clearly marked.

b)    Exit/entry to water must be marked.

c)    Assistance in marked zone is permitted but Race Director may limit number of persons per craft.

d)    Equipment may be removed from transition zone by approved persons other than the competitor.

e)    The Race Director must provide marshals to monitor the transition zone and their directions must be followed.

f)      Vehicles may not enter the zone while competitors are therein.

 

11        SKI-ING CONDUCT

 

11.1   Equipment