10 most violated triathlon rules

June 15, 10:25 AMMinneapolis Fitness ExaminerMalia Frey

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Bib numbers must be visible on the front (photo source)

USA Triathlon, the governing body for the sport of triathlon, released a list of the most violated rules and penalties to be distributed to athletes. Below are numbers six through eleven (one bonus violation is included!) on that list. Tomorrow's post will include the top five. Rule violations generally result in a time penalty or disqualification for the athlete. The time penalty assigned depends on the distance category of the race and on the number of times the rule violation occurred. For a complete set of rules visit the USAT website.

Top USAT Violations:

11. Abandonment: All personal equipment and belongings taken out onto the course must stay on the athlete the entire time. No garbage, clothing, etc, shall be thrown on the course. Penalty: Variable time penalty

10. Wetsuits: Each age group participant shall be permitted to wear a wetsuit without penalty in any event sanctioned by USA Triathlon up to and including a weather temperature of 78 degrees Fahrenheit. When the water temperature is greater than 78 degrees but less than 84 degrees, age group participants may wear a wetsuit at their own discretion , provided however, that participants who wear wetsuits within such temperature range shall not be eligible for prizes or awards. Above 84 degrees, wetsuits are prohibited.

9. Race Numbers. All athletes are required to wear race numbers at all times during the run. Numbers must face the front and be clearly visible at all times. Numbers may not be cut or folded or altered in any way. DO NOT transfer your number to any other athlete or take a number from an athlete who is not competing. Penalty: Variable time penalty for missing or altered number. Disqualification and one year suspension from membership in USAT for transferring a number without race director permission.

8. Headphones: Headphones, headsets, walkmans, iPods, mp3 players or personal audio devices are not to be carried or worn at any time during the race. Penalty: variable time penalty

7. Unsportsmanlike Conduct: Foul harsh argumentative or abusive language or other unsportsmanlike conduct directed at race officials, USAT officials, volunteers, spectators, or fellow athletes is forbidden. Penalty: disqualification

6. Course: All competitors are required to follow the prescribed course and stay within coned lanes. Cutting the course is an obvious violation and going outside the course is a safety issue. Cyclists shall not cross a solid yellow center lane for ANY reason. Cyclists must obey all applicable traffic laws at all times. Penalty: Referee's discretion

Any guesses as to the top five violations??? Have you seen these violations at recent events? Hit the comment button below and chime in.  The top five violations will be posted tomorrow.

Source: USAT athlete notice.  Photo by Scott and Renee on Flickr!