How does transition work in para triathlon?
I · Intermediate · Swim, bike and run · 3 of 5Wheelchair and standing athletes may remove wetsuits in a pre-transition area. Wheelchair athletes then move by day chair with working brakes. Athletes missing a leg must use a prosthesis or crutches and may not hop. In transition, PTVI athletes rack nearest the mount line, then PTS5 to PTS2, then PTWC, each with a 4 m by 2 m space.
How it works
- Pre-transition: wetsuit removal for PTWC and PTS.
- Day chair: PTWC, with working brakes.
- No hopping: use a prosthesis or crutches.
- Rack order: PTVI, PTS5 to PTS2, then PTWC.
- PTWC space: 4 m by 2 m.
- Handcycle: may be ridden inside transition.
- Extra kit: moved by officials.
- No penalty: for uncollected mobility kit.
The glossary has the pre-transition area, the transition (para triathlon), the personal handler, the swim exit assistants, the mount and dismount stop (PTWC) and the prosthesis (run).
Tricky cases
Can a below-knee amputee hop to transition?
No.
Who moves the spare prosthetic leg?
It is moved between areas for the athlete.
Can a PTWC athlete ride the handcycle in transition?
Yes.
Must the day chair have brakes?
Yes, working brakes.
Why the rule exists
A pre-transition area gives time to change kit safely. The rack order puts those who move fastest nearest the exit.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| PTWC | Day chair, larger space | 17.9, 17.10 |
| Amputees | No hopping | 17.9 |
| PTVI | Nearest the mount line | 17.10 |
From the rule book
World Triathlon, Competition Rules (2026, amendments to 29 April 2026), articles 17.9 and 17.10. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: World Triathlon Competition Rules, Section 17.