Run-swim-run rules
Run-swim-run is a run to the water's edge, a swim around the buoys and a run back to the finish (§4.6.5). Seniors run about 200 m each way around a 120 m buoy course; masters run 2 × 140 m, and nippers race shorter runs and buoys.
Distances
- U9 & U10: buoys 60 m, runs 2 × 75 m (§4.6.5).
- U11 & U12: buoys 60 m, runs 2 × 100 m.
- U13 & U14: buoys 80 m, runs 2 × 150 m.
- Juniors and seniors: buoys 120 m, runs 2 × 200 m.
- Masters: buoys 120 m, runs 2 × 140 m.
How it's run
From the start line athletes run past a turning flag at the water's edge, swim around the line of nine buoys (two buoys for nippers), and run back past the flag on its shoreward side to finish between the red flags (§4.6.5). Up to 32 race at a time (§4.2.9).
Common disqualifications
Grabbing or knocking over the turning flag, not finishing upright, and not completing the course as set (§4.6.5).
Common questions
How long is a senior run-swim-run?
About 200 m of running, a swim around buoys 120 m out, then about 200 m back (LSA Competition Manual §4.6.5).
What distances do nippers race in run-swim-run?
U9–U10 run 2 × 75 m with buoys at 60 m, U11–U12 run 2 × 100 m with buoys at 60 m, and U13–U14 run 2 × 150 m with buoys at 80 m (§4.6.5).
Can you touch the turning flag?
You may not grab or dislodge it (§4.6.5).
Do masters race run-swim-run?
Yes, in every masters band, with 2 × 140 m runs and the 120 m buoys (§4.6.5, §11.4.3).
Sources
Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted something wrong? Email hello@flagline.co.za.