The world of triathlon has something for everyone. You don't even have to do the whole race if you don't want to. More and more people are doing relays, where individuals can shine in their respective strong sports. But if you want to get out there and finish a triathlon on your own, here's a short breakdown of the distances and times you are looking at.

Kiddie (Kid's, Ironkids) Triathlon -

This race typically consists of a 50-200 yard swim, a 2-5 mile bike, and anywhere from a 200 yd to a 1 mile run. I'm pretty sure the cutoff age for this race is around 12. If you're already older than that then you will want to check out the sprint triathlons. Competitors in this race usually finish in under a half hour. This is a great way to get your kids interested in a healthy and enjoyable sport.

Sprint Triathlon

Distances for this race vary, but the averages are a 400-1000 yd swim, an 8 - 20 mile bike, and a 2 - 5 mile run. These races can really be classified as short sprints and long sprints, so check with your local race directors and other experienced racers to get the low down on the distances. Top racers in short sprints generally finish under an hour, while a middle of the pack time might be around 1 hour 30 minutes.

Olympic Distance

This is the accredited distance for the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games. There is no variation in the Olympic distance format. It always consists of a 1.5 kilometer swim, a 40 k bike, and a 10 k run. For Americans, that works out to a 1 mile swim, a 24.8 mile bike, and a 6.2 mile run. A very fast time for this distance is under two hours, and the fastest men's times have been at 1:45 and 1:46, while the women have been around 1:53 and 1:54. Your Average Joe Triathlete, however, is going to be pretty happy breaking 2:30 in this race.

In the world of sports, a two hour race is generally considered a pretty long race. Not in triathlons, however. All the race distances discussed above are considered short distance races.

Middle distance races include:

Half-Ironman

Half of the accredited ironman distance. A 1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike, and a 13.1 mile run. If you've got the stamina and determination to train and race at this distance, my hat is off to you. Your humble author is a mere sprinter. First timers, be prepared. The race generally takes the fastest elite triathletes a little under 4 hours, while age-groupers trickle in up to ten hours after the gun goes off.

Half-Ironman races, while the most popular middle distance format, do not make up the entire middle distance category. There are other races with distances from 1-3 mile swims, 30-70 mile bikes, and 8-15 mile runs. In general, if the average time of a race is 5-6 hours, the race is considered middle distance.

Long distance races include:

The Ironman

On a grueling day in 1977, Hawaii, 13 men set out to see who were the toughest athletes: the swimmers, the cyclists, or the runners. 7 men finished, and still argue about who is tougher. Be that as it may, the Hawaii Ironman was the original "triathlon" distance, and many still consider it to be the only real triathlon. So if you think you're ready to be a real triathlete, get ready for a 2.4 mile swim, a 112 mile bike, and top that off with a marathon -26.2 mile run. If and when you cross that line, you will be an Ironman, and no one will ever take that away from you. Official Ironman races are all over the planet nowadays, so there should be one somewhere you can get yourself into. If you want to. The fastest men generally finish in around 8 hours, while the fastest women finish in about 9. If you finish at all you should be happy.

Ultraman

Take that Ironman and double it. Go ahead, I dare you. There are only a few Ultraman races around, and entries are limited to people who have proven they are ready for the distance. For instance, Navy seals and Hawaii Ironman finishers are generally admitted.

Good luck!!!!

That's a basic lowdown on what kind of distances and times you can expect from that triathlon you keep hearing about. If you can run a 5k, and ride 10 miles, and swim 400 yards, then chances are you are ready for a sprint triathlon. Come on, just "tri" it!

Article I
 
Scope, Purpose and Construction


1.1 Scope. These Competitive Rules ("Rules") are adopted by USA Triathlon and govern the administration of all races and events sanctioned by USA Triathlon. These Rules are binding on all members of USA Triathlon and all persons who enter or participate in any event sanctioned by USA Triathlon.
 
1.2 Purpose. These Rules are designed to set forth a standard set of parameters within which athletes can participate in triathlons and compete in a positive atmosphere of equal opportunity. These Rules are intended:
To promote and maintain sportsmanship, equal opportunity and fair play;
To encourage and reward individual performance and initiative;
To protect the health, safety, and well being of participants;
To promote the integrity of sport and triathlon as a positive cultural force in modern day society; and
To foster the foregoing ideals through the establishment and enforcement of punitive rules.
 
1.3 Construction. These Rules shall be interpreted and construed in a manner consistent with their purpose. Whenever the context so indicates, the masculine or feminine gender, and the singular or plural number, shall be construed to include the other.
 
1.4 Rules Exceptions and Additions. For any particular event, a race director may request from USA Triathlon a specific exception or addition to these Rules. Any such request should be made with the consideration of the participant's safety as the highest priority. All requests for Rule changes must be made in writing. All exceptions or additions to these Rules must be expressly approved in writing by the Executive Director of USA Triathlon and must be announced to all participants prior to the event.
Article III
 
General Rules of Conduct and Penalties
3.1 Preparation and Training.
No person shall participate in a triathlon or other multi-sport events unless such person;
(a) is trained adequately for that specific event, as might be expected of a prudent person entering a similar competition, and
(b) is in excellent health, based on recent training, physical examinations, if any, and generally accepted standards of good health.
 
3.2 Age Group Competition.
(a) All age group athletes must participate and compete in the age group division corresponding to the athletes actual age on the date of the event.(b) Clydesdale/Athena Categories - The official minimum weight standards for this category is 200 pounds for men, 150 pounds for women, to be monitored by the local race director. The age breakdown will be 39 years of age and under and 40 years of age and over.
 
3.3 General Conduct.
At or during an event, or while at the event site, all participants must:
Act in compliance with these Competitive Rules;
Conduct themselves in a matter that is not offensive in any way to fellow participants, spectators, officials or volunteers and is considered reasonable and acceptable in the community;
Treat all participants, officials, volunteers and spectators with fairness, respect and courtesy;
Refrain from the use of abusive language or conduct; and
After violating any of the Competitive Rules, report such violation to the Head Referee or retire from the event.
 
3.4 Race Conduct.
All participants in USA Triathlon sanctioned events must adhere to the Rules in this Section 3.4:
Entire Course. Participants must cover the prescribed course in its entirety. It is the participant's responsibility to know the course. Any violation of this section, even if no advantage is gained, shall result in a variable time penalty, unless the Head Referee in his sole discretion determines that (i) the violation was substantial and resulted in an unfair time advantage, or (ii) the violation constituted endangerment under Section 3.4(l). In the event the Head Referee makes such a determination, the penalty shall be disqualification.
Unsportsmanlike Conduct. Participants shall refrain from unsportsmanlike conduct, including the improper use of language or conduct directed toward an official. Violations of this Section shall result in disqualification or a variable time penalty depending on the severity of the violation as determined in the sole discretion of the Head Referee.
Obstruction. Participants shall refrain from intentionally or accidentally blocking, charging, obstructing, or interfering with the forward progress of another participant. Any violation of this Section shall result in a variable time penalty.
Unauthorized Assistance. No participant shall accept from any person (other than a race official) physical assistance in any form, including food, drink, equipment, support, pacing, a replacement bicycle or bicycle parts, unless an express exception has been granted and approved, in writing, by USA Triathlon. The receipt of information regarding the progress, split times, or location of other competitors on the race course shall not be considered the acceptance of unauthorized assistance. Any violation of this Section shall result in a variable time penalty.
Re-entry. Upon leaving the course, a participant shall re-enter the course and continue at the same point of departure. Any violation of this Section shall result in a variable time penalty, unless the Head Referee in his sole discretion determines that (i) the violation was substantial and resulted in an unfair time advantage, or (ii) the violation constituted endangerment under Section 3.4(l), in which case the penalty shall be disqualification.
Race Numbers. Participants shall plainly display their race numbers at all times, and shall maintain the race number in an unaltered, unobstructed and readable state at the start and finish gates, in the transition areas, and on the course. Any violation of this Section shall result in a variable time penalty.
Unfair Advantage. No participant shall use his body, head, arms, or legs to gain an unfair advantage, or to push, pull, hold, strike, or force through one or more participants. Any violation of this Section shall result in a variable time penalty.
Abandoned Equipment. No participant shall leave any equipment or personal gear on the race course. Any violation of this Section shall result in a variable time penalty.
Unauthorized Accessories. No participant shall, at any time during the event, use or wear a hard cast, headset, radio or any other item deemed dangerous by the Head Referee. Any violation of this Section shall result in a variable time penalty.
Glass Containers. No participant shall utilize any glass bottles or glass containers at any time during the event. Any violation of this Section shall result in a variable time penalty, unless the Head Referee determines that such conduct constituted endangerment under section 3.4(l), in which case the penalty shall be disqualification.
Unauthorized Equipment. No participant shall use any equipment which the Head Referee determines to be improper, including but not limited to equipment which might provide an unfair advantage or endanger other participants. Unless otherwise provided for in these Rules, any violation of this Section shall result in a variable time penalty.
Endangerment. No participant shall commit any dangerous act which could cause injury to any participant. Any violation of this Section shall result in disqualification.
 
3.5 Unregistered Participants.
Any person who participates in any portion of a sanctioned event without first properly registering and paying any required registration fee shall be suspended or barred from membership in USA Triathlon and barred from participation in any sanctioned event for a period of one year. Any second violation of this Section shall result in a lifetime suspension or ban from membership in USA Triathlon.
 
3.6 Penalties and Prohibited Conduct.
Penalties, including disqualification and suspension, may be imposed upon race participants and/or members of USA Triathlon who violate any of these Competitive Rules or who solicit, encourage, or assist a violation of these Rules. Except as otherwise provided in these Rules, the specific penalty to be imposed in any given case shall depend on the nature and severity of the violation as determined by the Head Referee or USA Triathlon. The following penalties may be imposed for a violation of these Rules:
Assessment of a time penalty
Disqualification
Written reprimand or censure
Monetary fines
Suspension from membership in USA Triathlon ( including retroactive suspension) and
Permanent expulsion from USA Triathlon.
 
3.7 Time Penalties.
In General. A time penalty may be imposed for a violation of any Section of these Rules in which a time penalty is expressly authorized. In the event that a participant is assessed a time penalty, the applicable time period shall be added to that participant's aggregate finishing time in calculating official race results. Except as otherwise provided in Section 5.10B of these rules, time penalties shall be cumulative and a participant may be assessed more than one time penalty for violations of the same rule.
 Variable Time Penalties. A "variable time penalty" as used in these Rules shall mean a time penalty that varies in accordance with the distance category of the event. The variable time penalty for each of the distance categories shall be the following:
 
Distance Category
1st Offense
2nd Offense
3rd Offense
Short or Sprint
1:00 minute
2:00 minutes
Disqualification
International & Olympic
2:00 minutes
4:00 minutes
Disqualification
Long
4:00 minutes
8:00 minutes
Disqualification
Ultra
6:00 minutes
12:00 minutes
Disqualification
USA Triathlon or the AAC shall determine and publish the criteria pursuant to which distance categories are defined for purposes of this Section. The "long" distance category shall include events equal to one-half of the Ironman distance, and the "ultra" distance category shall include Ironman distance events.

3.8 Acts Warranting Suspension.
In addition to other penalties which may be imposed at the discretion of USA Triathlon, the following acts may be grounds for suspension for a period of time designated by USA Triathlon:
A flagrant or willful violation of the Competitive Rules;
Gross or continued unsportsmanlike conduct;
Physical violence directed toward a race official, participant, volunteer, spectator, or other person;
Any fraudulent act, such as falsifying name or age, filing a false affidavit or protest, or providing false information to USA Triathlon, the Board of Hearings and Appeals, or race officials;
Intentionally participating in an event despite failure to register, lack of membership, or ineligibility for the relevant membership class;
Repetitive or recurring violations of the Competitive Rules;
Failure to notify a race official after withdrawing from a race;
Violation of the Medical Control Rules as set forth in Article VIII;
Refusal to abide by the final determination by USA Triathlon on any matter relating to these Rules or the sport of triathlon; and
Any act which disgraces or brings discredit to the sport of triathlon.
 
3.9 Effect of Suspension.
Any person suspended from membership in USA Triathlon shall be ineligible to participate in any USA Triathlon sanctioned event and shall be disqualified from any USA Triathlon sanctioned event during the suspension period and until such time as that person has applied for and received written notice of reinstatement from USA Triathlon.
 
3.10 Reinstatement.
Any person who has been suspended must apply in writing to USA Triathlon for reinstatement after or immediately preceding expiration of the suspension period.
 
3.11 Notice of Disciplinary Actions.
Any person reprimanded, censured, suspended, or expelled from USA Triathlon shall be entitled to receive reasonable notice of such disciplinary action.
 
3.12 Acts of Agents.
The conduct of any agent acting with apparent authority on behalf of a participant shall constitute grounds for penalizing such participant if such agent's conduct violates any of these Rules.

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 Article IV
 
Swimming Conduct
4.1 Permissible Strokes.
A swimmer may use any stroke to propel himself through the water, and may tread water or float.
 
4.2 Bottom Contact and Resting.
A participant may stand on the bottom or rest by holding an inanimate object such as a buoy, boat, rope or floating object. Excluding the bottom, a participant shall not use any inanimate object to gain forward progress. A violation of this section shall result in a variable time penalty, unless the Head Referee in his/her sole discretion determines that (i) the violation was substantial and resulted in an unfair time advantage, or (ii) the violation constituted endangerment under Section 3.4(l).
 
4.3 Emergencies.
A swimmer experiencing difficulty and in need of assistance shall raise an arm overhead, and pump it up and down, and call or seek assistance. A swimmer who has received official assistance, whether voluntary or involuntary, must retire and withdraw from the remainder of the race unless such assistance did not aid the swimmer in making forward progress. No swimmer shall return to the race if the official rendering assistance requests that the participant withdraw from the race or receive medical assistance.
 
4.4 Wet suits.
Each age group participant shall be permitted to wear a wet suit without penalty in any event sanctioned by USA Triathlon up to and including a water temperature of 78 degrees Fahrenheit. When the water temperature is greater than 78 degrees, but less than 84 degrees Fahrenheit, age group participants may wear a wet suit at their own discretion, provided however that participants who wear a wet suit within this temperature range shall not be eligible for prizes or awards. Age group participants shall not wear wet suits in water temperatures equal to or greater than 84 degrees Fahrenheit. The wetsuit policy for elite athletes shall be determined by the USAT Athletes Advisory Council.
 
4.5 Notice Of Wet Suit Policy.
The wet suit policy for any particular race shall be included on all race literature that is intended for distribution to potential participants. The wet suit policy shall conform to Section 4.4, unless a change is granted in compliance with Section 1.4. The wet suit policy on such literature shall include the following information, if applicable:
(a) Any changes from Section 4.4;(b) Any specific restrictions on equipment;
(c) Any disparity between the wet suit policy for age group athletes and the policy for elite athletes.

4.6 Measuring Water Temperature.
It is recommended, but not required that the water temperature for a race be finally determined by a measurement made within 2 hours of the race start. Measurements should be made in at least three locations on the swim course, spaced so as to divide the entire swim course into approximately equidistant segments, and measured at a depth of 18 inches below the surface of the water, at points where direct sunlight can strike the water. The water temperature for the race should be determined by averaging the three temperature measurements taken. A water temperature measurement should also be taken prior to any pre-race meetings in order to forecast to the athletes as early as possible the likely water temperature on race day and the likelihood of whether wet suits will be allowed on race day.
4.7 Official Equipment.
If provided by race management, a swimmer shall wear the proper official swim cap corresponding to his wave. The penalty for an infraction of this rule is a variable time penalty. For safety reasons if no official cap is provided, all swimmers should wear their own brightly colored swim cap.
 
4.8 Goggles.
Swimmers may wear, but shall not be required to wear, swim goggles or face masks.
 
4.9 Illegal Equipment.
Any swimmer wearing any artificial propulsion device, including but not limited to fins, gloves, paddles, or floating devices of any kind shall be disqualified.
 
4.10 Wave Starts.
When the swim portion of any event is commenced by starting designated "waves" or groups of participants at different times, all participants shall start in and with the proper wave or group. Any participant who violates this section by starting in an improper and earlier wave or group shall be disqualified.

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 Article V
 
Cycling Conduct
5.1 Propulsion.
All bicycles shall be propelled only by human force and human power. Other than pushing a bicycle, any propulsive action brought on by use of the hands is prohibited. Any violation of this Section shall result in disqualification.
 
5.2 Forward Progress.
Participants shall not make any forward progress unaccompanied by their bicycle. If a bicycle is rendered inoperable, a participant may proceed on the cycling course, running or walking, while pushing or carrying the bicycle, so long as the bicycle is pushed or carried in a manner not to obstruct or impede the progress of other participants. Any violation of this Section shall result in disqualification.
 
5.3 Knowledge of Course.
The sole responsibility of knowing and following the prescribed cycling course rests with each participant. No adjustments in times or results shall be made for participants who fail to follow the proper course for any reason whatsoever.
 
5.4 Traffic Laws.
All participants must obey all traffic laws while on the cycling course unless otherwise specifically directed by a USA Triathlon official, race monitor or designee with actual authority. Unless otherwise directed in accordance with the preceding sentence, all participants shall come to a complete stop when required by a traffic sign or traffic control device and shall not proceed through any intersection unless such intersection is clear of oncoming traffic. In no case shall a cyclist cross a solid yellow line indicating a no passing zone. Any violation of this Section shall result in disqualification or a variable time penalty as determined in the sole discretion of the Head Referee.
 
5.5 Endangerment.
No cyclist shall endanger himself or another participant. Any cyclist who intentionally presents a danger to any participant or who, in the judgement of the Head Referee, appears to present a danger to any participant shall be disqualified.
 
5.6 Accidents.
All participants shall exercise extreme caution and shall decrease speed if necessary in passing the site of any cycling accident. Any violation of this Section shall result in disqualification.
 
5.7 Dismounting.
A participant may dismount, but shall not interfere with other cyclists. A violation of this Section, which does not also constitute a violation of Section 5.5, shall result in a variable time penalty.
 
5.8 Illegal Equipment.
Any participants who any time uses, wears or carries a headset, radio, headphones, or any other item described in Section 3.4(i) shall be assessed a variable time penalty.
 
5.9 Helmets.
(a) Type of Helmet. All participants shall wear a protective head cover, undamaged and unaltered, which meets or exceeds the safety standards of the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Helmets manufactured prior to March 10, 1999 must meet or exceeds the safety standards of(i) the American National Standard Institute (ANSI Z-90.4), (ii) The Snell Memorial Foundation (Protective Headgear for Bicycle Users), or (iii) ASTM F-1446 or F-1447, and which is clearly labeled by the manufacturer as satisfying such standards. Removal of helmet cover, if required for that helmet to meet such safety standards, shall constitute an impermissible alteration in violation of this Section 5.9(a). Any violation of this Section 5.9(a) shall result in disqualification.
(b) Use of Helmet. The helmet must be properly placed on the head and fastened before the participant first mounts the bicycle, at all times when the participant is on the bicycle, and must not be unfastened or removed unless the participant has dismounted. Any violation of this Section 5.9A(b) shall result in disqualification. Not withstanding the preceding sentence, a participant shall not be disqualified if the helmet strap unintentionally and temporarily becomes unattached, and the participant immediately comes to a full stop and repairs the strap and replaces the helmet while fully stopped with both feet on the ground.
(c) Chinstraps. The helmet strap must be unsnapped at the start of the race and must remain unsnapped until the athlete is prepared to begin the bicycle portion of the event. The helmet strap must be snapped in the transition area immediately prior to beginning the bicycle course.
 
5.10 Position Fouls.
In accordance with the Rules as set forth in this Section, a participant is not permitted to position his bicycle in the proximity of another moving vehicle so as to benefit from reduced air resistance. While on the cycling course, participants shall not work together to improve performance, efficiency, or position by teamwork or other joint conduct. A variable time penalty shall be imposed for any violation of this Section.
(a) Illegal Positioning. Except as otherwise provided in these Rules, while on the cycling course, no participant shall permit his drafting zone to intersect with or remain intersected with the drafting zone of another participant or that of a motor vehicle. With respect to a motor vehicle ( including authorized race vehicles), it is the athlete's responsibility to move out of the vehicle's drafting zone or to continually communicate to the vehicle to move away.
(b) Definition of Drafting Zone. The term "drafting zone" shall refer to a rectangular area seven (7) meters long and two (2) meters wide surrounding each bicycle. The longer sides of the zone begin at the leading edge of the front wheel and run backward parallel to the bicycle; the front wheel divides the short side of the zone into two equal parts. With respect to a moving motor vehicle, the "drafting zone" is a rectangular area extending 15 meters to each side of the vehicle and 30 meters behind the vehicle.
(c) Right-of-Way. A participant is generally entitled to assume any otherwise proper location on the cycling course provided that the participant arrives in the position first without contacting another participant. When taking a position near another participant, however, a cyclist shall not crowd the other participant and shall allow reasonable space for the other participant to make normal movement without making contact.
(d) Blocking. Cyclists who have established the right of way must not block or obstruct the progress of another participant.
(e) Passing. A participant who approaches another cyclist from the rear or from another unfavorable position bears primary responsibility for avoiding a position foul even if the cyclist being approached decreases speed. A participant must not attempt to pass another cyclist unless adequate space is available and the athlete is confident of his/her ability to pass the other cyclist. All passing is to be done to the left of the cyclist being overtaken unless otherwise specified.
(f) Position. Except for reasons of safety and when no advantage is gained, all cyclists shall keep to the right of the prescribed course unless passing.
(g) Being Overtaken. When the leading edge of the front wheel of one cyclist passes beyond the front wheel of another cyclist, the second cyclist has been "overtaken" within the meaning of these Rules. A cyclist who has been overtaken bears primary responsibility for avoiding a position foul and must immediately move to the rear and out of the drafting zone of the passing cyclist. The overtaken cyclist shall first move completely out of the drafting zone of the other cyclist before attempting to re-pass the other cyclist. In no case, however, shall a participant move into the path of another participant possessing the right of way.
(h) Exceptions. A participant may enter the drafting zone without penalty only under the following conditions:
(1) When entering the drafting zone from the rear, closing the gap, and overtaking all within no more than 15 seconds.
(2) When cyclist reduce speed for safety reasons, for course blockage, for an aid station, for an emergency, when entering or exiting a transition area, or when making a turn of 90 degrees or more; or
(3) When USA Triathlon or the Head Referee expressly excludes a section of the bicycle course from the position foul Rules because of overly narrow lanes, construction, detours, or a similar reason.
 5.10A Position Fouls. Rule for Elites
(a) Illegal Positioning. Except as otherwise provided in these Rules, while on the cycling course, no participant shall permit his drafting zone to intersect with or remain intersected with the drafting zone of another participant or that of a motor vehicle. With respect to a motor vehicle (including authorized race vehicles), it is the athlete's responsibility to continually communicate to the vehicle to move away.(b) Definition of Drafting Zone. The term "drafting zone" shall refer to a rectangular area surrounding every bicycle which shall be two (2) meters (approximately six feet) wide and shall extend ten (10) meters behind the bicycle. The longer sides of the drafting zone begin at the leading edge of the front wheel and run backward parallel to the bicycle extending ten (10) meters behind the bicycle; the front wheel divides the short side of the zone into two equal parts. The drafting zone therefore extends one meter (or approximately three feet) to each side of every bicycle and ten (10) meters behind every bicycle. With respect to a moving motor vehicle, the "drafting zone" is a rectangular area extending three (3) feet to each side of the vehicle and fifty (50) feet behind the vehicle.(c) Exceptions. A participant may enter the drafting zone without penalty only pursuant to the following exceptions:
(1) When entering the drafting zone form the rear, closing the gap, and overtaking all within no more than 15 seconds; a participant may not, however, enter the drafting zone of another cyclist through side to side movement when not attempting to overtake or making forward progress to overtake the other cyclist; or
(2) When cyclists reduce speed for safety reasons, for course blockage, for an aid station, for an emergency, when entering or exiting a transition area, or when making a turn of 90 degrees or more.
(d) Position on Course/Right-of-Way. Except as otherwise provided in these Rules, a participant is generally entitled to assume any otherwise proper location on the cycling course provided that the participant arrives in position first without contacting another participant.(e) Staggered Positioning. All cyclists must assume and maintain a staggered riding position relative to the cyclists directly ahead; no cyclist may maintain a position of the course directly in line with a cyclist directly ahead. This staggered position must be maintained even if the cyclist is outside of the drafting zone and following at a distance of greater than ten (10) meters.
(f) Blocking. Cyclists who have assumed a proper position must not block or obstruct the progress of another participant.(g) Position and Passing. A participant must attempt to pass another cyclist unless adequate space is available and he is confident of his ability to overtake and pass the other cyclist.(h) Being Overtaken. When the leading edge of the front wheel of one cyclist passes beyond the front wheel of one cyclist passes beyond the front wheel of another cyclist, the second cyclist has been "overtaken" within the meaning of these Rules. A cyclist who has been overtaken bears primary responsibility for avoiding a position foul and must immediately move to the side or to the rear and out of the drafting zone of the passing cyclist.(i) Overtaking. A participant who approaches another cyclist from the rear or from another cyclist from the rear or from another unfavorable position bears primary responsibility for avoiding a position foul even if the cyclist being approached decreases speed.(j) Re-Passing. An overtaken cyclist shall first move completely out of the drafting zone before attempting to repass another cyclist. In no case, however, shall a participant move into the path of another participant possessing the right-of-way.
 5.10B Position Foul Penalties. Rule for Elites
(a) First Violation Time Penalty. A variable time penalty shall be imposed for the first violation of Section 5.10A in any event.(b) Second Violations. For a second violation of Section 5.10A in the same race, a fine shall be imposed in the amount of $200 and the athlete shall be disqualified from the event and shall be required to immediately withdraw from the race and vacate the course. An athlete charged with any second violation of Section 5.10A shall safely pull over to the side of the bicycle course, shall come to a complete stop, and shall abide by all instructions from race officials.(c) Two Violations/Three Races. In addition to the above penalties, if an athlete is penalized for committing two (2) violations of Section 5.10A in each of three (3) separate races during anyone calendar year, the athlete shall be suspended from membership in USA Triathlon and AAC for a period of four (4) weeks plus one day.(d) Two Violations/Six Races. In addition to the above penalties, but in lieu of a second four-week suspension under subsection (c), if an athlete is penalized for committing two (2) violations of Section 5.10A in each of six (6) separate races during any one calendar year, the athlete shall be suspended from membership in USA Triathlon and AAC for a period of three (3) months plus one day.

5.10C Assessment of Time Penalties/Conduct of Athletes. Elite Rules.
All variable time penalties imposed under Section 5.10B shall be assessed in accordance with this Section. Except as otherwise provided herein, any violation of or failure to comply with this Section 5.10C shall result in disqualification.
(a) First Violation Stop and Go System. Unless a Penalty Area System is being used pursuant to subsection (b), an athlete charged with a first violation of Section 5.10A shall safely pull over to the side of the bicycle course and shall come to a complete stop, placing both feet on the ground. The athlete shall properly attach the penalty indicator and shall remain stopped under the direction of the race official for a period of time equal to the applicable variable time penalty. When the official indicates that the time penalty has expired, the athlete may continue with the race.(b) First Violation Penalty Area System. Notwithstanding subsection (a), if a Penalty Area is being used in the event, an athlete charged with a first violation of Section 5.10A shall (1) safely decrease speed while maintaining a straight line of movement, (2) come to a complete stop, and (3) place both feet flat on the ground while completely stopped. Provided that, in the judgment of race officials, the athlete complies with the full stop requirement, the athlete may continue with the race. After completing the bicycle course and properly securing the bicycle, the penalized athlete shall immediately report to the designated penalty box or penalty area, which shall be located within or adjacent to the transition area (the "Penalty Area"). The penalized athlete shall remain in the Penalty Area for a cumulative amount of time equal to the variable time penalty assessed against the athlete. After such time has expired as determined by race officials, the athlete may exit the Penalty Area and continue with the race. Any time served in the Penalty Area shall become incorporated into the athlete's official time for the event.(c) Use of Penalty Indicator. While stopped on the bicycle course for a first violation of Section 5.10A, an athlete shall be required to wear or affix to the bicycle a penalty indicator. The penalty indicator may be a florescent tape, wristband, or any other marker designated by race officials. Each athlete is required to carry the proper penalty indicator during the bicycle portion of the event. If charged with a penalty, an athlete who has accidentally lost the penalty indicator must alert race officials and obtain a replacement indicator. The penalty indicator will serve as notice to officials and spectators that the athlete has been penalized. No athlete shall intentionally remove the penalty indicator until all professional athletes have completed the event. This rule shall apply notwithstanding the athlete's disqualification from the event. Any violation of this Section 5.10C(c) shall result in disqualification and suspension from AAC and USA Triathlon for a period of three (3) months.(d) Penalty Area Conduct. While in the Penalty Area, no athlete shall dress, undress, change uniforms, or adjust any race equipment. Running shoes may be worn into, but shall not be carried into the Penalty Area. While in the Penalty Area, no athlete shall accept any form of aid or assistance, including food, drink, or equipment, from any other person, including race officials. Any violation of this Section shall result in disqualification.
 5.10D Suspension Periods. Rule for Elites
All periods of suspension imposed under Section 5.10C shall commence on the day following the day of the race in which the violation giving rise to the penalty was committed or, if a different date is specified therein, on the date so specified in any notice received from USA Triathlon or the AAC. All suspensions must be served between the date of the sanctioned or endorsed by USA Triathlon in the United States for the calendar year. Any suspension period remaining on such later date shall be continued and served beginning on the date of the first Category race of the following year.

5.11 Bicycle Specifications.
All bicycles and bicycle equipment used in USA Triathlon sanctioned events must conform to the specifications set forth in this Section. Any participant using a nonconforming bicycle or otherwise violating this Section shall be disqualified.
(a) Length cannot exceed two meters, and width cannot exceed 75 centimeters.
(b) The distance from the ground to the center of the chain wheel axle must measure at least 24 centimeters.
(c) A vertical line touching the front most point of the saddle may be no more than 5 centimeters in front of and no more than 15 centimeters behind a vertical line passing through the center of the chain wheel axle, and the cyclist must not have the capability of adjusting the saddle beyond these limits during competition.
(d) The "front-to-center" distance, which is defined as the distance between a vertical line passing through the center of the chain wheel axle and a vertical line passing through the center of the front axle, must measure not less than 54 centimeters and no more than 65 centimeters, except that in the case of bicycles for taller participants (where the distance between the center of the chain wheel axle and the top of the saddle is greater than 80 centimeters), the front-to-center distance cannot exceed 68 centimeters and, in the case of bicycles for shorter cyclists (where the distance between the center of the chain wheel axle and the top of the saddle is less than 71 centimeters), the front-to-center distance cannot be less than 50 centimeters. Applicability of the two foregoing exceptions is determined by measuring from a point on top of the saddle which is 14 centimeters behind the front most point of the saddle.
(e) There must be no protective shield, fairing, or other device on any part of the bicycle (including frame, wheels, handlebars, chain wheel, and accessories) which has the effect of reducing resistance. Aerodynamic carriers for food, water, and or cycling provisions may be attached to or be an integral part of the aero-handlebars if they meet the following guidelines:
(i) the carrier can pass from front to rear, through a rectangular loop with dimensions of 10 inches (25 cm) in width and 8 inches (20 cm) in height.
(ii) The front of the carrier is behind the cyclist's hands when the hands are placed in their customary position on the end of the aerobars, and
(iii) The length of the carrier is no greater than 10 inches (25 cm) front to rear.
When the carrier is an integral part of the aerobar, this integrated unit must be able to pass through the rectangular loop defined in (i) above and the carrier portion of the unit must meet criteria (ii) and (iii). In the event that compliance with this section is in doubt with respect to any particular carrier or integrated unit, a member of USA Triathlon may submit the carrier or integrated unit to USA Triathlon for evaluation.
(f) No additional equipment, whether it is worn under the competitor's clothing, over the competitors clothing, or is otherwise attached to the athlete's body, which has the effect of reducing wind resistance is permitted. An exception is the use of safety helmets as described in Section 5.9. Such helmets may have the effect of reducing the wind resistance of the head only.
(g) Except as otherwise determined by the race director in the interest of safety, the front wheel may be of a different diameter than the rear wheel, but the front wheel must be of spoke construction. The rear wheel may be either spoke or solid construction. Wheel covers shall only be permitted on the rear wheel.
(h) No wheel may contain any mechanism, which is capable of accelerating the wheel.
(i) Handlebars and stem must be fashioned to prevent any danger. All handlebar ends must be solidly plugged to lessen the possibility of injury.
(j) There must be one working brake on each of the two wheels.
(k) All aspects of the bicycle must be safe to the user and to other participants in the event. Minimum safety standards include, but are not limited to, properly glued and sealed tires, tight headset and handlebars, and true wheels.

5.12 Untraditional or Unusual Bicycle Equipment.
Any unusual bicycle construction or equipment to which the specifications in Section 5.11 cannot easily be applied shall be illegal unless prior approval is received from the Head Referee before the equipment is used in the event. Any violation of this Section shall result in disqualification.
Article VII

Transition Area Conduct
7.1 Entering and Exiting.
A participant must reduce cycling speed to an acceptable and safe level when exiting and entering the transition area. Failure to do so shall result in a variable time penalty.

7.2 Placement of Equipment.
All participants shall place equipment only in the properly designated and individually assigned bicycle corral and shall at all times keep their equipment confined to such properly designated areas. Any violation of this Section shall result in a variable time penalty.

7.3 Bicycle Placement.
All participants must return their bicycles to an upright position in the properly designated bicycle corral after completion of the cycling course and before beginning the next segment of the event. Any violation of this Section shall result in a variable time penalty.

7.4 Obstruction and Interference.
No participant shall impede the forward progress of another participant or interfere with another participant's equipment while in the transition area. Any violation of this Section shall result in a variable time penalty, unless such obstruction or interference renders another participant unable to complete the event, in which case the penalty shall be disqualification.

7.5 Glass Containers.
Any participant who brings any glass container into the transition area shall be disqualified.

7.6 Indecent Exposure.
Public nudity in the transition area or at any time during the event is prohibited. Any violation of this Section shall result in a variable time penalty.