Athletes are to be checked-in at their assigned start box with their number plate on their uniform 15 minutes before their start, requiring that they arrive earlier to complete the check-in process.
Only 5 athletes from each team will be permitted in the start box plus the 5 individuals from each Association. Only athletes in correct uniform will be allowed in the start area.
Portable listening devices (excluding hearing devices) are not permitted throughout the competition.
Race Start Protocol
At least 15 minutes before start, competitors are to present themselves at their Association’s assigned start box, where Start Box Officials will check whether:
Athletes are wearing a correct and legal uniform
Athletes are wearing a number plate corresponding to the official start list
Each athlete is racing as an individual or a team member
Only 5 athletes are competing from each team
The Chief Starter will signal a five-minute warning at which time:
All athletes must be checked into their assigned boxes
Athletes are to determine their start positions
The Chief Starter will signal a three-minute warning at which time:
All athletes must make themselves ready to compete
Start Box Officials in each box will raise their red flag indicating that athletes are getting ready to compete
Athletes must position themselves at the start line, if they were the top finisher amongst the individuals at their qualifier race, or if they have been selected by their team to be team starter
Athletes must position themselves in a single file behind their team starter in order by rank as determined by their team, if they are a member of a team
Athletes must position themselves in a single file behind the first ranked individual athlete in order by rank at their qualifier race, if they are individual athletes
Start Box Officials in each box will raise their white flag once all athletes are in position and ready to compete
Once the white flag is raised no athletes may enter, leave, or change position in the start box
Approximately one minute before race start, the two Assistant Starters will:
Check that all boxes assigned to them are displaying white flags
Check that all athletes in boxes assigned to them are behind the start line
Raise a green flag, once all checks are complete
Once green flags are raised from both Assistant Starters, from the Lead Vehicle, and from the Chief of Finish, the Chief Starter will signal a one-minute warning by raising their arm, at which time:
All athletes must remain silent and still in anticipation of the start
After approximately 60 seconds, the gun will be fired or horn will sound to indicate the START of the Race.
