ATHLETES: NEW WETSUIT REGULATIONS BEGIN IN 2013
Following extensive research and consideration, USA Triathlon announced on June 21 that beginning in 2013 use of wetsuits exceeding five millimeters in thickness will not be permitt ed at USAT- sanctioned events.
The new regulation, which falls under Article 4.4 Wetsuits of the USA Triathlon Compeiittive Rules, states: “Effective January 1, 2013, any swimmer wearing a wetsuit with a thickness measured in any part greater than five millimeters shall be disqualified.”
“The overall feeling of the USAT board, which has been considering this issue and the impact it might have for some time, is that it makes perfect sense to align with the guidelines set by our international federation and multi sport enthusiasts around the world,” said USA Triathlon interim CEO Tim Yount
By implementing this rule change, USATriathlon falls in line with the international standard of five millimeters recognized by the International Triathlon Union (ITU) and other National Governing Bodies.
The adoption of this rule is designed to eliminate any competitive advantage gained by enhancements in wetsuit technology in recent years. Studies have shown there is a marked and measurable performance benefi t to the use of certain wetsuits, specifically added buoyancy effectively reducing passive drag. These performance benefits have led to an increased, and artificially induced, reduction in physical demand required during the swim leg of a triathlon and an increase in speed.
USAT recognizes that there may be wetsuits currently available on the market that are greater than five millimeters in thickness. Consequently, the organization has implemented a phase-in period of the rule to allow the use of wetsuits that currently do not meet the thickness requirement. This announcement of the new regulation serves as notice that the rule change will come into effect in 2013. USAT recently solicited feedback on the wetsuit thickness issue from its certified race directors via a comprehensive survey. The majority of those surveyed supported USA Triathlon’s adoption of this rule.
JOIN A CLUB – USAT SURPASSES 800 CERTIFIED CLUBS NATIONWIDE
After hitting 700 official clubs in April, USA Triathlon wasted little time reaching another milestone in that category, as the organization reached 800 official clubs for the first time in July. At press time, USAT lists 846 official clubs nationwide.
No matter the level of multi sport skill, athletes can enhance their triathlon experience by participating in a club, which allows athletes to train smarter, harder and have more fun with likeminded individuals.
Official clubs receive access to a number of important resources from USA Triathlon and are eligible for race discounts and discounts from USAT partners. USAT actively seeks input from its off cial clubs to help enhance the benefit structure for its clubs. Visit
usatriathlon.org for more information on the official club program and to locate one in your hometown.
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