A Message From USAT Head Referee

Most Commonly Violated Rules             Visit USAT for Complete Competitive Rules

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The Chicago Triathlon is sanctioned by USA Triathlon, and USAT Rules apply including the following:

 

1. POSITION

  • Ride in the left lane unless passing another cyclist and stay to the left in your lane.
  • Keep at least three bike lengths between you and the cyclist in front of you unless attempting to pass.
  • Pass on the right, never on the left, and only pass in the right lane of the two bike lanes available to you in each direction.
  • Never move into the oncoming bike lanes to pass another cyclist.
  • Complete your pass within 15-seconds or drop back behind the cyclist you are trying to pass.
  • If passed, you must drop back 3 lengths to the rear, before attempting to re-pass.

Bike Marshals will be on the course to ensure fairness in the competition.

  • There will be NO WARNINGS if you commit a foul. It's the responsibility of athletes to know the course, understand the rules and avoid penalties.
  • All citations will be reviewed by the Head Referee who will decide if a penalty should be assessed. The Head Referee's ruling is final in the case of "position violations" and there are no protests or appeals.

Violations commonly cited by Race Marshals

  • Blocking - riding on the right side of the left lane and riding in the right lane when not in the act of passing another cyclist.
  • Riding abreast of another cyclist when not in the act of passing.
  • Illegal Pass - passing on the left, or failing to drop back three bike lengths before re-passing.
  • Drafting - following a leading cyclist closer than three bike lengths and failing to pass or exit the draft zone within 15 seconds.
  • Position Violations carry a time penalty for each occurrence, if you are cited for three violations, you will be disqualified.

Note: Most accidents that take place on the bike leg of a triathlon are the result of a cyclist making contact with another cyclist that is moving in the same direction, either through contact from behind (caused by drafting) or passing without care and sideswiping the other cyclist.

2. BIKE HELMET VIOLATIONS

  • ANSI, CPSC or SNELL approved helmets are required during the cycling portion of the event. You will be prohibited from participating if you don't have an approved helmet (no refunds).
  • Always have the chinstrap of your helmet properly fitted and secured when you are on your bike (including transitions). The chinstrap rule is easy to obey, but if you forget and you are caught, you will be disqualified.

3. COURSE ETOQUETTE

  • Remember to treat all participants, volunteers & officials with courtesy and consideration. Failure to do so is called “Un-Sportsmanlike Conduct” and you will be disqualified.

4. TRANSITION AREA RULES

  • You must check your bike into transition between 4:15am & 5:45am. Transition will close promptly at 5:45am. Transition will not re-open for equipment pick-up until the last runner is out on the run course (approximately 11am). All equipment must be picked up by 2:00pm!
  • No extra bike wheels, no extra wetsuits or large duffel bags will be allowed in the transition area. Do not bring extra equipment! Other than your gear, leave your valuables at home. Don't leave anything in the transition area that you will need before transition re-opens.
  • You are prohibited from riding your bike in the transition area. Bike mount and bike dismount take place near Bike In and Bike Out.