Posted: March 12, 2005

Triathlon: "Best Of The US Amateur Triathlete Competition" Athlete Eligibility Requirements

AGE: In accordance with USAT rules, athletes must by at least 15-years-old on the date of their qualifying race to be eligible. Qualifying athletes age 18 and under on the date of the Championship race must have a parent or guardian co-sign their Championship application.

USAT STATUS: State Qualifiers and the Championship are USAT sanctioned events. All participants must either hold a USAT Annual Membership Card or have purchased a one-day USAT license for both their Qualifier race and the Championship.

RESIDENCY: State Qualifiers can qualify "resident" athletes only. Out-of-state participants cannot claim qualifier slots, including passdowns. Athletes must demonstrate residency in the state in which they attempt to qualify, and may be asked to show identification.

Those who have residences in more than one state (e.g. college students) may choose ONE of their states of residence in which to attempt to qualify for the Championship. If such an athlete is found to have raced, AS A RESIDENT, in more than one State Qualifier, only the results of the first attempt will be considered official for purposes of the Competition.

AMATEUR STATUS: Only amateur athletes are eligible. Former pros must demonstrate that their pro cards have officially expired.

PASSDOWNS: To insure that every state is represented at the "Best of the US Championship," the 2nd through 5th male and female resident amateur overall finishers at State Qualifiers will be asked to complete passdown questionnaires and submit them to "Best of the US..." management. In the event that the first place resident amateur finisher is unable or unwilling to attend the Championship, the slot will be offered to the athlete who is next in line, and so on.

AWARDS, GIFTS, RECOGNITION: The top 3 overall resident amateur finishers in all Qualifying events will receive awards provided by "Best of the US.." management. The passdown of any Qualifier awards, perks, gifts, or other benefits will be at the discretion of the "Best of the US.." management.

DISCRETION OF MIDWEST EVENTS: Midwest Events reserves the right to make appropriate modifications or amendments to these Eligibility Requirements in its sole and absolute discretion, without notice to or consent of any athlete, in the best interests of safety or the promotion of the Championship or Qualifier races.

The "Best of the US" website is at: www.bestoftheustriathletes.com.