New additions to the British Athletics rule book are to be printed in January 2014, coming into play on April 1st 2014. Rule changes include a change in definition of foreign athletes, changes to female throwing implements and disqualification for number swapping.
New ruling for foreign athletes comes from the abuse of these athletes competing in open team competitions. British Athletics now state that foreign athletes must be undertaking ‘educational training’ or a ‘gainful experience’ to compete for a UK club in open team competitions. Athletes will not be allowed to compete if they are on holiday, on a short visit or in the UK for a sporting event.
The weight of female throwing implements has been lessened for all U17 throws and some U15 throws. This is in accordance with IAAF rule changes. The changes are listed below.
- Shot U17 from 4kg to 3kg, U15 from 3.25kg to 3kg
- Hammer U17 from 4kg to 3kg
- Javelin U17/U15 from 600gms to 500gms
Disqualification for number swapping in road races has been called for due to abuse of the current rule, which states that “numbers are issued to the individual athlete completing the application form and are non-transferable, except with the specific authority of the Race Secretary.” Many road races allow legal number transfers in the case of athlete withdrawals or late entries but unauthorised transfers are very common. The new rule declares that those who transfer numbers without permission will be disqualified.
Other rule changes include topics of athletes returning to competition after 12 months, competition providers being able to enforce additional rules, reduction of competition limits for U13 and U15 athletes, relay changeover clarifications and affiliation and registration clarifications. Details of the new rules can be found here https://www.britishathletics.org.uk/media/news/2013-news-page/december-2013/19-12-13-rule-changes/
