Race bib numbers are mandatory during the run leg only. They must be visible from the front. Take care not to fold or damage your number!
1. Mandatory number only during the run leg
-
-
The race bib must be worn only during the running leg.
-
It is not required:
-
during the swim
-
during the bike
-
In triathlon, identification in the other legs is done through:
-
Body markings (tattoo numbers)
-
Number stickers on the bicycle
-
Number stickers on the helmet
-
2. Visibility from the front
The race number must:
-
be positioned on the front part of the body
-
be fully readable by:
-
Technical Officials
-
timing systems
-
photo finish and rule-violation recording
-
Common practice:
-
using a race belt, allowing the athlete to rotate the number to the front for the run.
Violations:
-
number worn on the back
-
covered by clothing
-
folded or unreadable
3. Prohibition of damage or folding
The instruction “Take care not to fold or damage your number” means:
-
the following are not allowed:
-
folding the bib for aerodynamics
-
cutting the number
-
altering logos or digits
-
-
the number must remain in the original condition provided by the organizer.
Reasons:
-
proper identification
-
race safety
-
accurate recording of penalties
4. Possible penalties (World Triathlon Competition Rules)
Depending on severity:
-
verbal warning
-
time penalty
-
stop-and-go penalty
-
in extreme cases → disqualification (DSQ)
5. Practical application during the race
Typical athlete procedure:
-
Exit T2.
-
Rotate the race belt to the front.
-
Start the run with the number visible.
-
Keep the number visible until the finish line.
6. Summary
The rule states that:
✔ The race bib is mandatory only during the run.
✔ It must be visible from the front.
✔ Alteration or damage is not allowed.
Πηγή: World Triathlon