Race Director Certification Questions
RACE DIRECTOR CERTIFICATION
Certification specific questions: please contact Liz Tucker at liz@usatriathlon.org
What is the benefit of becoming a certified RD?
Race Director Certification is the first step to receiving access to certain USAT Partner Programs and gathering the latest information on risk management, insurance, course development and USAT sanction compliance. Any race director can sanction an event with USAT triathlon. However, only certified race directors can demonstrate and provide proof of thorough training by USA Triathlon to local permitting agencies, medical and law enforcement personnel and our insurance company. In 2010, Certified RDs will enjoy a discount on sanction fees as well as being eligible to host
When will the next certification class be held?
Six classes were offered throughout the year in 2009. Registration, class locations and dates are posted on the Education page when they are confirmed and available.
Will becoming a certified race director have any effect on my sanctioned races?
As the certification program develops there will be greater access to major USA Triathlon partner programs, lower sanction fees and the ability to bid on Championship status events. Athletes will also be able to recognize that you have training in race management and you will also be able to display the USAT Certified Race Director logo on your race materials and website.
Additionally, certified race directors can provide proof of thorough training by USA Triathlon to local permitting agencies, medical and law enforcement personnel and our insurance company.
What are the course hours for the program?
There will be approximately 16 hours of coursework to achieve certification. View a sample of the full Race Director Certification Schedule.
Are there any Prerequisites to taking the certification course?
Yes. Race Directors who currently sanction events with USAT must be in full compliance with all sanction guidelines and pre- and post-race requirements before consideration for certification is allowed. Potential attendees who have not yet sanctioned an event with USAT will be expected to meet all requirements once they sanction an event and will be monitored for compliance along with all other certified race directors. USAT reserves the right to refuse attendance to a RD Certification class based on the above criteria.
What is the cost to attend?
Most of the classes cost $350 and include all course materials. Some of the venues allow us to include meals and housing with the course; in these cases the cost of the class will be slightly higher to cover these addtions.
Do I need to do anything to prepare for the Certification Program?
Nothing! Come with an open mind, a stack of business cards and be ready to listen and learn!
How long is my certification valid and will I have to be recertified later on?
Your original certification will be valid for two (2) years. After that point, there will be the option to proceed to either higher levels of certification or recertification - these levels will require further course work. Please visit our Level 2 and Recertification Overview page for more information on these requirements.
Will I have to take a test to get my certification?
Yes, there will be a take-home final exam, but all the information you need to pass will have been provided to you over the course of the weekend and in the RD Certification Guide provided to you.
