Changes to the Drafting Zone

Saturday, 18th February 2006

The ITU recently published their revised rules for the coming season and the major change involved the drafting zone that surrounds each cycle whilst competing in a triathlon or duathlon. In previous seasons, for Age Group races (excluding long distance races), the drafting zone measured 5m x 2m and the centre of the leading 2 metre edge was measured from the back edge of the back wheel. However, the new rule will be as follows:

"The draft zone is a rectangle measuring seven (7) metres long by three (3) metres wide which surrounds every cycle on the cycle course. The front edge of the front wheel defines the centre of the leading three (3) metre edge of the rectangle."

Although the drafting zone is slightly bigger, each athlete will still have 15 seconds to move through another competitor's draft zone. As the beginning of the season draws closer, it is important that athletes, referees and race organisers note this rule change and are prepared to abide by it. The new 2006 rule book, which will be distributed in April, will include this new rule. As stated a few weeks ago, the Rules and Technical committee are conducting a complete review of the drafting situation including current penalties, deployment and education of motorcycle referees and the education of athletes and race organisers.

Please note that for long distance races, the drafting zone is still 10m x 3m and each competitor has 30 seconds to move through another competitors drafting zone.

If you have any questions or comments, please e-mail ruthgrainger@britishtriathlon.org

Article Source:  British Triahtlon website, 17 February 2006