What happens if weather or water conditions change on race day?
Rule- USA
- USA Triathlon
- Age-group
- Ages 15+
- Draft-illegal
- Multisport Competition Rules
- 2026 rules
- Athletes
Before the start (section 13.1.1), the race can be cancelled, postponed, rerouted, changed to a duathlon, aquathlon or other two-segment race, shortened (keeping at least two segments), have its swim shortened or cancelled, or change how it starts.
Swim guidance (section 3.4.4), using the official (adjusted) water temperature:
| Condition | Swim |
|---|---|
| Air below 42.8°F, water below 53.6°F, or water at or above 89.6°F | Cancelled |
| 53.6 to 55.3°F, or 87.8 to 89.5°F | Up to 750 m |
| 55.4 to 57.1°F | Up to 1500 m |
| 57.2 to 58.9°F | Up to 3000 m |
| 59.0 to 87.7°F | Full distance |
The Head Referee can also shorten or cancel the swim for waves, currents, wind or water quality.
During the race (section 13.1.2), the course can be rerouted, or the race suspended, resumed or stopped. If it's suspended, you restart only from where you were stopped, and your time isn't adjusted for the delay. The rules (including no outside help) still apply while you wait.
Added 21 Oct 2026