What is para triathlon?
B · Beginner · Classes and the start · 1 of 3Para triathlon is triathlon for athletes with an eligible impairment, under World Triathlon's rules plus Section 17. Major events are sprint distance with a two-hour limit. Wheelchair athletes ride a handcycle and run in a racing wheelchair; vision-impaired athletes race with a guide and ride a tandem; standing athletes may use prostheses on the bike and run. Racing is draft-illegal.
How it works
- Rules: World Triathlon, plus Section 17.
- Distance: sprint at major events.
- Time limit: two hours.
- Wheelchair classes: handcycle and racing wheelchair.
- Vision classes: guide and tandem.
- Standing classes: prostheses on bike and run.
- Drafting: not allowed.
- Also: duathlon and aquathlon.
The glossary has the para triathlon, the medal events, the time limit (para triathlon), the handcycle (para triathlon), the guide and the bike (para triathlon).
Tricky cases
Can para triathletes draft on the bike?
No. Races are draft-illegal.
Is the Paralympic race longer than sprint?
No. It is sprint distance.
Can a wheelchair athlete use a handbike in the run?
No. They use a racing wheelchair.
Is there a winter para event?
PTS2 to PTS5 may take part in winter multisport.
Why the rule exists
Each machine replaces a movement the athlete cannot make. The rest of triathlon stays the same.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| PTWC | Handcycle and racing chair | 17.14, 17.15 |
| PTVI | Guide and tandem | 17.17 |
| PTS | Prostheses allowed | 17.16 |
From the rule book
World Triathlon, Competition Rules (2026, amendments to 29 April 2026), articles 17.1 to 17.5 and 17.12. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: World Triathlon Competition Rules, Section 17.