News Item

Updates to IMRA Competition Rules

Monday August 18 - Alan Ayling

A few changes have been made to the IMRA Competition Rules, to bring them into line with current practices and decisions by the Committee to ensure fair competition in the spirit & ethos of the organization.

The Rules can be found by clicking the Constitution and Rules tab at the bottom of the page, then IMRA Competition Rules.

Summary of the changes:

a) A new Rule 2, explaining that these Competiton Rules are the general rules, but some races may have specific rules relating to that particular race. A perfect one-size fits all isn’t practical, given the diverse range of races IMRA hosts. Where specific rules apply, they must be published on the RACE PAGE beforehand.

b) The “Race Director discretion” rule allowing RDs to waive rules has been removed.

c)Mandatory kit is now explicitly included in the rules as a new Rule 9. It advises that the mandatory kit arrangements will be advised on each event page.
Additionally, the new Rule 9 includes “Use of caches of food, water or any other kit is strictly prohibited, as is jettisoning kit or knowingly discarding any form of kit or litter on the course during the race.”

d) The old rule prohibiting “pacing” has been modified as a new Rule 13, stating “running with a supporting runner in any way that might give competitive advantage is not allowed in IMRA races. Examples would be running with a pacer/pace-setter, using a navigator, or someone carrying your gear. Individual race pages will, where necessary, give details of support allowed or prohibited.”

e) In relation early starts, Rule 14 now states “If an early start is permitted, it is for runners who typically finish in excess of 160% of the winning time. Results positions will be based on finishing times.” This is in line with what was agreed at a vote in the 2024 AGM.