Equipment

1.1 GENERAL

1.1.1 All athletes need to bring all their equipment from start to finish,
including any rubbish generated from food or equipment.

1.1.2 Random mandatory equipment checks will be conducted before the race,
possibly during registration. Athletes without required equipment will not be
allowed to start.

1.2 MANDATORY EQUIPMENT PER TEAM

1.2.1 One waterproof-packed first aid pressure bandage

1.2.2 For all Long and Super long courses - Two wetsuits (one per team member),
covering legs and torso, suitable for cold water temperatures. Optional if
water temperature exceeds 17°C. Optional for Mid and short courses.

1.2.3 Two specific water whistles (one per team member), easily accessible
during swims.

1.2.4 Two foldable cups/soft flasks or similar (or use swim cap) for hydration
at energy stations.

1.3 MANDATORY EQUIPMENT FOR SOLO COMPETITORS

1.3.1 One waterproof-packed first aid pressure bandage

1.3.2 For all Long and Super long , One wetsuit, covering legs and torso,
suitable for current water temperature. Optional if water temperature exceeds 17°C.
Optional for Mid and short courses.

1.3.3 One whistle, easily accessible during swims.

1.3.4 One foldable cup/soft flask or similar (or use swim cap) for hydration at
energy stations.

1.3.5 - all solo swimmers must use the swim tow float in every swim and carry
this with you during the race.

1.4 ORGANIZSATION-SUPPLIED MANDATORY EQUIPMENT

1.4.1 Race bib, visible throughout the entire race.

1.4.2 Swim cap, to be worn during all swim segments.

1.4.3 GPS tracker for select races/categories (Solo: one per athlete, Team: one
per team) (replacement fee for lost or non-returned tracker: NZD 100).

1.5 EQUIPMENT RESTRICTIONS

1.5.1 Maximum total size for pull buoys is 32cm x 30cm x 15cm.

1.5.2 Swim fins exceeding 15cm from toe to fin-end are prohibited.

1.5.3 Any size hand paddles are allowed.

1. Penalties

2.1 GENERAL

2.1.1 Non-compliance with competition rules may result in penalties, including
time penalties, disqualification, suspension, or lifetime expulsion.

2.1.2 Penalties depend on the severity of the violation.

2.1.3 Serious violations result in suspension or expulsion, determined by the
Race Jury.

2.1.4 Common violations and penalties are detailed in Appendix A.

2.2 RACE JURY

2.2.1 Consists of the Race Director and two race organization members.

2.2.2 Responsibilities:

• Enforcing
  rules
• Resolving
  protests
• Determining
  penalties
• Approving
  course and rule changes
  
  2.2.3 Decisions require at least two jury members.
  
  2.2.4 Jury may use discretion for situations not explicitly covered in
  rules.
  
  2.2.5 Jury decisions are final.
  
  2.2.6 Warnings before penalties are not required.

2.3 PROTESTS

2.3.1 Protests must be submitted in writing to race organizers within one hour
after race completion.

2.3.2 Protests must include:

• Time
  and location
• Protester's
  bib number and signature
• Bib
  number of protested athlete(s)
• Reason
  for protest
• Witness
  details (if available)
  
  2.3.3 Incomplete protests will not be considered.
  
  2.3.4 Race jury decisions will be communicated promptly.

1. Race
   Organization Conduct

3.1 GENERAL

3.1.1 Conduct comprehensive risk assessments and implement appropriate safety
measures for athletes and staff.

3.1.2 Ensure adequate safety personnel and craft for all swimming segments
based on risk assessment.

3.1.3 May disqualify athletes deemed physically incapable or at excessive risk
from continuing the event.

3.2 FORCE MAJEURE

3.2.1 Neither participants nor organizers shall be liable for events beyond
reasonable control (natural disasters, extreme weather, government actions,
etc.).

3.2.2 Organizers are not liable for participant claims arising from force
majeure disruptions.

3.3 RACE CANCELLATION

3.3.1 If the race is cancelled prior to race day, no refunds for travel or
third-party expenses will be given.

3.3.2 In case of event cancellation, no refunds will be given but entries may
be transferable depending on feasibility.

3.4 TEMPERATURE

3.4.1 Organizers will assess water and air temperatures. If combined air and
water temperatures are below 17°C, race organizers may modify or cancel swim
sections, add run sections, shorten the course, or cancel the event for athlete
safety.