It is imperative that all USA Triathlon-certified coaches (and athletes) understand the competition rules that impact participation and eligibility.
The 2023 Multisport Competition Rules seek to make very clear the parameters of allowable attire and proper dress for participation in the event in question, including the segments of each race.
Of particular note, you can find in the Definitions section the following language.
Race Suit: For sun protection or for religious reasons, an athlete may wear a one-piece or two-piece suit. The suit may cover the shoulders and arms but not extend above the neck or past the wrist or ankle, except for a suit worn for religious reasons when it may cover the head or hair. The face may not be covered. The top section of a two-piece suit must not extend above the neck. When the use of wetsuits is forbidden, unless otherwise specified, clothing covering the arms below the elbow and covering any part of the legs below the knees is also forbidden. The body of the race suit must be comprised of 100% textile material such as nylon or Lycra and must not include rubberized material such as polyurethane or neoprene.
Coaches should know that volunteers, Race Directors, and assisting officials at USAT-sanctioned events should never render a judgment as to the permissibility of an athlete’s race attire.
Any questions regarding permitted attire should be directed to the assigned Head Official. In the case of a self-officiated race, race management should reach out to the office of the Commissioner of Officials for assistance in making any such determination.
USA Triathlon has made it very clear that your federation will never adopt a policy that would disallow the wearing of the attire required for either sun protection or religious reasons. USA Triathlon is dedicated to greater inclusion for all in multisport. USAT Coaches should always strive to do better and help educate constituents on matters of inclusion.
Coach Mark Turner (aka Coach MarkT) is a Houston, Texas Metro area based Coach who is a USA Triathlon Level II and Paratriathlon Certified Coach, IRONMAN University Certified Coach,VFS Certified Bike Fitter, and Mental Strengths Performance Coach. Coach MarkT absolutely loves coaching and helping the athletes achieve their dreams. MarkT is also a US Veteran having served in the United States Marine Corps. He is a graduate of the University of Houston Honors College with a Bachelor of Science in Political Science. In addition to endurance sports, his interests include history, science fiction, and cooking. He can be reached at markt@teamMPI.com.
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