Rules and regulations

Athletes must wear the official swim cap provided in their athlete kit at all times.

1. On race morning, it will be announced whether wetsuits are permitted or not.
2. The use of neoprene booties is subject to regulations.
3. Swimmers may rest on kayaks or support boats as long as there is no forward movement. The swim medical or support team reserves the right to stop a swimmer’s progress if deemed necessary for safety or medical reasons.
4. Swimmers are required to stay within the marked zone. Failure to do so may result in disqualification.
5. The swim course will close 1 hour after the last athlete starts. Athletes who take longer than 1 hour to complete the swim will be removed from the competition (DNF).
6. If a swimmer decides not to continue to the bike segment or abandons the swim course, they must turn in their chip and notify the timing chip station or a member of the IRONMAN TEAM. This is essential to maintain an accurate count of athletes who have exited the water or are on the bike course.

Wetsuit rules

The water temperature will be measured on race morning by IRONMAN officials to determine the legality of wetsuit use.

Athletes who choose to wear wetsuits when they are prohibited by regulations will not be eligible for age group awards. Wetsuits must NOT be thicker than 5mm. Wetsuits are MANDATORY if the water temperature is 15.9°C or lower. Wetsuits are PROHIBITED if the water temperature is 22°C or higher.