Are starting blocks compulsory at youth meets?
Rule- South Africa
- Athletics South Africa
- ASA Rules 2024 onwards
- World Athletics rules
- Youth athletics
- U16-U20
- 2026/27
- Coaches
- World Athletics rule (TR 15.1 and 16.3): in races up to and including 400m (and the first leg of the 4 x 200m, medley and 4 x 400m relays), a crouch start and starting blocks are compulsory, with the commands "On your marks" and "Set".
- ASA variation (ASA Rule 29): at club and provincial competitions, the mass-participation section of major events, and provincial, district and zone competitions of associate members (such as school and tertiary bodies), starting blocks are not compulsory. If the organiser makes them compulsory, the organiser must supply them.
- Own blocks: athletes may use their own blocks. They must meet the World Athletics specifications (rigid frame, adjustable foot plates, no movement during the start) but can otherwise be any design, as long as they don't interfere with other athletes. On synthetic tracks the organisers may insist that only their blocks are used.
- False starts: outside combined events, an athlete responsible for a false start is disqualified immediately. In combined events, one false start per race is allowed.
Updated 22 Oct 2026