General Information

Races that require officials (championships, etc)

Only championship events are required by USAT to have officials. However, every race director is required by sanction to enforce the Competitive Rules. Wise race directors will usually contract to have USA Triathlon certified officials present, as they are the only people specifically trained and experienced to handle the myriad problems that rules enforcement entails.

How officials are chosen for high profile races

The Regional Officials Coordinators choose the appropriate officiating team for all USA Triathlon events where officials are requested. The most experienced officials are assigned to pro-rules events and USA Triathlon championships.

Value to athletes and race directors of
USA Triathlon officials at events

Though race directors can provide safe, challenging and fun events, only properly trained officials can bring fairness to the athletes. Triathletes look for and count on USA Triathlon Officials to enforce the Competitive Rules at triathlons and duathlons. The absence of officials usually means that “anything goes” and athletes have not been given an opportunity to fairly measure themselves against their competitors.

Race directors count on USA Triathlon Officials to take care of all the rules enforcement, leaving the race directors free to do what they know best: coordinate a safe and challenging event, and take care of their customers.

Organization structure

The Officials Program is governed by the Commissioner, who reports to the Event Services Director of USA Triathlon, and the Regional Officials Coordinators who manage the program within each of USA Triathlon's geographical regions. The Commissioner and each of the Regional Coordinators work closely with USA Triathlon administrators, race directors, and athletes in order to provide the best trained officials to sanctioned events around the country. Fairness and consistency are our primary goals.