17. What are the most important rules during a TRI HARD competition?

Just like any other sporting event, there are several rules that apply during a triathlon. The most important ones are listed below.

General

1. Your race number is always visible from the moment you check in your bike in the transition area. You’ll wear a paper race number during the cycling and running stages.
2. Always be alert once you’re in the transition area, even if you’re not yet or no longer racing: other athletes may still be racing.
3. In the transition area, your belongings should only be placed in the designated area. Your belongings will not interfere with other athletes.
4. Please dispose of waste in the trash bins on the grounds and put cups and sports nutrition containers in the designated “Trash Zone.” This is always located after an aid station and is marked with signs.

Swimming

1. You must wear a swimming cap while swimming. We’ll provide one. You must also wear your cap during the warm-up.
2. Swim as far to the right as possible.
3. Avoid physical contact with other athletes.

Cycling

1. You wear your starting number on your back.
2. Wearing a helmet is mandatory as soon as you have secured your bike.
3. Cycling is not permitted in the transition area. Mounting and dismounting takes place at the designated area just outside the transition area. This area is marked with a mounting and dismounting line.
4. When cycling, ride as far to the right as possible, so that faster athletes can pass you on the left.
5. Drafting is prohibited. You must cycle with your front wheel at least 12 meters behind the vehicle in front of you. Overtaking (on the left) is, of course, permitted.

Running

1. You wear your bib number on your front.
2. While running, stay as far to the right as possible, so that faster athletes can pass you on the left.
3. Trash (drink cups, sports nutrition packaging, etc.) must be disposed in the designated “Trash Zone.” This is always located after a refreshment station and is marked with signs.

For a detailed overview of all the rules that apply to a triathlon, we refer you to thewebsite of the Dutch Triathlon Association.