FINA SERIES RULES
Season VII

The subsequent paragraphs and pages represent the official rules, regulations, and guidelines for the Federation of International Ninja Athletes (“FINA”) Season VII.  These rules are subject to change by the collective members of the FINA Executive board to ensure the rules, regulations, and guidelines always accurately and fairly represent the best interest of the FINA Athlete.  These rules are final, interpreted in the sole discretion of the FINA Leadership and Board of Advisors, and are not subject to outside interpretation or appeal.

COMPETITION DESCRIPTION

FINA competitions are two discipline-specific events with one focused on speed (Speed) and one focused on endurance (Endurance), and a head-to-head racing competition (Ninja vs. Ninja).  An official FINA event can consist of:

1. A Speed Only event
2. An Endurance Only event
3. A Dual Event (Speed AND Endurance events)
4. A Ninja vs. Ninja race

FINA COMPETITION RULES AND GUIDELINES

The following rules and guidelines apply to any and all FINA competitions. Failure by Partner Gyms and FINA athletes to abide by these rules and guidelines may result in disqualification from participation in FINA competitions and events for the current and/or future seasons.

1. FINA events must be open to any and all eligible athletes.

1. Partner gyms may limit FINA event registration based on physical or personnel capacity ONLY. Such limitations must be approved by FINA Administration before event registration opens.  These registration limits will be applied to athletes on a “first-come, first-served” basis.
2. Partner gyms may not limit FINA events to a specific group of athletes.
3. Athletes are allowed to participate in any FINA event for which they are eligible, regardless of geographical location.

2. All athletes must compete in the FINA division for which they are eligible based on age and gender (See Athlete Eligibility).

1. Athletes may compete “up” one age division if they so choose.
2. Once an athlete competes in a division, the athlete must compete in that same division for the remainder of the season.

3. Partner gyms may not release details of a FINA event course or obstacle set-up prior to the beginning of the FINA event.

1. Athletes may not practice on, or have access to, any FINA event course or obstacle set-up prior to the start of the event.
2. Athletes may not have foreknowledge of any FINA event course or obstacle set-up prior to the start of the event or release of a walk-through video.
3. Partner gyms MAY post a video walkthrough up to three (3) days before the start of the competition with course and obstacle information, but may not allow athletes early access to the course or the obstacles.
4. Once the FINA course is set, no athlete should touch or use any of the obstacles in the course until the beginning of their competition run.

4. FINA courses must be composed of obstacles that are, and set in an order that is, different from the Partner Gym’s normal setup.

1. FINA courses should be designed specifically for the FINA event.
2. Partner gyms may include commonly used gym obstacles in a FINA course, but should arrange the obstacles in a configuration that is unfamiliar to the gym’s home athletes.

5. All Event courses must be approved by the FINA Course Approver prior to the scheduled event (see Course Approval).
6. All FINA Course Officials must be a person(s) who is not coaching or assisting specific athletes in any way.
7. FINA requires that the run order for each event be randomized before publication to the athletes.

1. Athletes who register for the event after the stated registration window should run first in their division.
2. Athletes who register for the event after the publication of the run order MUST run first in their division.

1. Exceptions may be granted in the instance of gym error when creating the initial registration list, such as a missed athlete or mistaken NinjaWorks ID.

GENERAL RULES FOR ALL FINA EVENT COURSES

The following rules and specifications will apply to all FINA Qualifying, Sectional, and Final events.

1. All FINA events must commence with a distinct starting sound that is consistent throughout the entire event.

1. If a gym does not have a timing system with a specific sound, a verbal countdown for each athlete is acceptable provided it is consistent for all competing athletes.
2. In the event an athlete begins his course attempt prior to the official starting sound, the official must immediately stop the run and return the athlete to the starting platform to restart their attempt.  This constitutes a “false start.”
3. If, after one (1) false start attempt, the athlete has another false start, the athlete will be disqualified from that course attempt.

1. If the athlete’s disqualification is during the first Speed run, the athlete’s first attempt will be over and they will still receive their second run.
2. If the athlete’s disqualification is during the second Speed run, the athlete’s run attempts will be over.
3. If the athlete disqualification is during the Endurance course, the athlete will be disqualified from the competition and no additional course attempts will be provided.
4. If the athlete’s disqualification is during Ninja vs. Ninja, the athlete’s race will be recorded as a loss.

2. All FINA obstacles must begin with a clearly defined starting platform or starting point.

1. Starting platforms should be elevated from the floor, but do not need to be elevated above safety matting.
2. Starting platforms cannot consist of a taped-off area on the floor.
3. Athletes must begin on the starting platform for each obstacle.

1. Course Administrators may allow an athlete to begin from a space behind the official starting platform, but not past.
2. Athletes may skip a starting platform if they are attempting to link obstacles.
3. Beginning an obstacle from a location other than the starting platform will result in an obstacle fail.

4. Once the obstacle has been engaged, the athlete may reset back to the obstacle starting platform, provided that they have not failed the obstacle.

1. Course Administrators may specifically disallow resetting back to the starting platform.  This must be clearly and verbally expressed to all athletes before the start of the division or competition.

3. All FINA obstacles must clearly end with a specifically defined landing platform, landing area, or finish line.

1. Dismounting past the edge of a mat or pad is acceptable.
2. Dismounting past a tape mark is NOT acceptable.
3. Clearing an obstacle past a tape mark on the obstacle itself is acceptable.
4. Athletes must clearly land on or past the designated landing platform after successfully completing the obstacle as intended to earn a course point.

1. Athletes may not fall off the side of the landing platform. This will constitute a fail on that obstacle.

1. Athletes may step off the side of the platform to follow the flow of the course, provided they have shown control on the landing platform.  This is under sole discretion of, and interpretation by, the Course Official.

2. Athletes may not fall or step back from the landing platform into the obstacle’s field of play. This will constitute a fail on that obstacle.
3. Athletes may fall forward, or “overshoot” the landing platform, provided they do not impact the next obstacle. The forward motion of the athlete must be linear and not to either side of the landing platform.

1. Course Administrators may specifically disallow falling forward or “overshooting” and require athletes to stay specifically on the top of the landing platform.  This must be clearly and verbally expressed to all athletes before the start of the division or competition.
2. If a platform is both a landing and starting platform, athletes who fall forward off the platform from the first obstacle must return to the platform to begin the second obstacle.

1. If an athlete contacts the next obstacle when falling forward, that will constitute the athlete’s attempt at the next obstacle.

4. Athletes may skip a landing platform if they are attempting to link obstacles.

1. If the athletes choose to skip the landing platform, the point for the first in a set of linked obstacles will occur upon the athlete's full control on the second obstacle.

5. Athletes may use hands and feet on all landing platforms, unless specifically stated otherwise.

1. Course Administrators may specifically disallow the use of hands on the landing platform. This must be clearly and verbally expressed to all athletes before the start of the division or competition.

4. One course point will be awarded for each obstacle successfully completed within the specific course time limit.

1. Each obstacle is worth one point, regardless of length or difficulty.
2. Athletes must be given an opportunity to earn each obstacle point independent from any other obstacle.

1. In a sequence of forced (mandatory) linked obstacles, athletes must have access to start each of the obstacles separately in the event of a single obstacle failure. (example: In a series of two linked obstacles, if the athlete fails the first obstacle, he/she must be allowed and able to mount to the second obstacle in the series to attempt that point separate from the first fail).

3. An athlete cannot fail more than one obstacle with a single failure or fall.

1. Athletes attempting an unforced (optional) link of two obstacles may fail both obstacles if they fail the transition and fall into the second obstacle’s field of play (see LINKING for more specific details).

SPIRIT OF THE OBSTACLE

1. All athletes that attempt a FINA course are bound by the promise to adhere to the core values represented in the Spirit of the Obstacle (see attached).

1. Athletes must make an honest and true “best effort” attempt at each obstacle.
2. Athletes must engage at least one part of each obstacle in a way in which it was intended before attempting a dismount.

1. Athlete creativity and ingenuity in completing obstacles are celebrated and encouraged.  However, obstacle “shortcuts” that eliminate the need for any specific ninja athleticism or ninja obstacle skill on the part of the athlete are not allowed. (examples: Jumping from the ground to hit the buzzer instead of climbing the finish rope as intended OR Walking up the side of the trampoline instead of using it as intended).

3. Athletes who violate the Spirit of the Obstacle are subject to a fail on that specific obstacle.  This is at the sole discretion of the Course Administrator and Course Official.

SPECIFIC FINA EVENTS

FINA SPEED

Athletes competing in the FINA Speed event will be presented two (2) opportunities to run a course that consists of eight (8) specific obstacle types in a predetermined order (“Course”).  Each FINA Speed course will have a fixed time limit, established by the course administrator and approved by FINA Course Approver.

1. Each athlete will be given two (2) runs on the Speed course.

1. Each athlete will run the course once. Upon completion of the wave or division, each athlete will then run the course a second time.

2.  Upon the conclusion of both attempts, only the athlete’s best attempt at the course will be used as the official qualifying attempt.
3. Each FINA Speed course will have a max time limit per athlete, predetermined by the Course Administrator and the FINA Course Approver.  Obstacles must be completed within the time limit to count towards the athlete’s course score.

1. Speed course time limits for divisions should be based on the successful completion times of the previous division.
2. Changes to the course time limit in the middle of a division or age group may not occur, except in rare instances (see TIMING ADJUSTMENTS for more specific details).
3. If the athlete is still on the course when the time limit is reached, the athlete must end their run attempt and exit the course.

1. Course Officials may choose to allow athletes to finish the obstacle or course after their time has expired.

4. An athlete will receive one (1) opportunity to complete each obstacle.
5. An athlete will earn one (1) Speed point for every obstacle successfully completed prior to the expiration of time allotted for the respective course.
6. If an athlete fails to complete an obstacle per the rules outlined by the Course Administrator, the athlete will move on to the next obstacle and not earn a point for the failed obstacle.
7. There is no limit to the number of obstacles an athlete can fail during the duration of their run.
8. All obstacles in a FINA Speed course must consist of a starting platform, specific obstacle, and landing platform.

1. Athletes may choose to link concurrent linear obstacles, but linking may NOT be forced (mandatory) in FINA Speed courses. (See LINKING for more specific details).

1. Allowing athlete linking of Speed obstacles is up to the discretion of the Course Administrator or Course Official.
2. Linked obstacles will be marked as complete when the athlete has full grip and/or control of the second obstacle and has fully released the first obstacle.

2. The landing platform of one obstacle may be the starting platform for the next obstacle.

9. Every FINA Speed course will consist of the following specific obstacle types. (see Appendix B for specific obstacle definitions)

1. One (1) Agility Obstacle
2. Two (2) Aerial Obstacles
3. Two (2) Balance Obstacles
4. One (1) Upper Body Obstacle
5. One (1) Upper Body OR Aerial Obstacle
6. One (1) Ascension Obstacle
7.  FINA strongly recommends that the obstacles be placed in the following specific order. Some variation to allow for course flow is allowed, with the exception of the Ascension obstacle which MUST be last.

1. Agility Obstacle
2. Aerial Obstacle
3. Balance Obstacle
4. Upper Body Obstacle
5. Aerial Obstacle
6. Balance Obstacle
7. Upper Body/Aerial Obstacle
8. Ascension Obstacle (must be last)

10.  The final Speed obstacle will be marked as successfully completed (“cleared”), and/or the athlete run time stopped upon the press of a final buzzer, sound of a specific noise device, or touch of a specific point outside of the last obstacle.

1. Passing a specific obstacle point or floor location is not acceptable as the final obstacle completion time.

FINA ENDURANCE

Athletes competing in a FINA Endurance event will be tested with a twelve (12) obstacle course (“Course”) designed to push the athlete to the limit, exhausting all major muscle groups.  Each FINA Endurance course will have a fixed time limit while still providing ample time for the potential completion of the course.

1. An athlete will receive one (1) run on the Endurance course.
2. An athlete will receive one (1) opportunity to complete each obstacle.
3. An athlete will earn one (1) Endurance point for every obstacle successfully completed prior to the expiration of time allotted for the respective course.
4. If an athlete fails to complete an obstacle per the rules outlined by the Course Administrator, the athlete will move on to the next obstacle and not earn a point for the failed obstacle.
5. There is no limit to the number of obstacles an athlete can fail during the duration of their run.
6. Each FINA Endurance course will have a max time limit per athlete, predetermined by the course administrator and the FINA Course Approver.  Obstacles must be completed within the time limit to count towards the athlete’s course score.

1. If the athlete is still on the course when the time limit is reached, the athlete must end their run attempt and exit the course.
2. Course Official may choose to allow athletes to finish the obstacle or the course after their time has expired.

7. An athlete running a course will be limited to a 10 second rest between obstacles.  The Course Official will inform the athlete when they need to begin the next obstacle.

1. Course Official may allow athletes a longer break for re-chalking or a drink of water within the run time provided the athlete has not used all their allowed break time between obstacles. This is solely at the discretion of the Course Official.
2. Any breaks or rest time by the athlete will be counted within the set time limit. The course timer will NOT be paused for these breaks.

8. Endurance obstacles should consist of a starting platform, specific obstacle, and landing platform.

1. Endurance obstacles may be forced (mandatory) linked meaning that the athlete is required to progress from one to the next without a landing platform (see LINKING for more specific details).

1. Linked obstacles will be marked as complete when the athlete has full grip and/or control on the second obstacle and has fully released the first obstacle.
2. Athletes must be allowed to re-mount the course and continue through the linked obstacles in the event of an obstacle failure
3. A fail on a linked obstacle cannot cause the athlete to fail the entire linked set of obstacles.

9. All Endurance courses consist of twelve (12) obstacles, at least eight (8) of which must be upper body obstacles (see DEFINITIONS).

1. Obstacles may be set in any order

10.  The final Endurance obstacle will be marked as successfully completed (“cleared”), and/or the athlete run time stopped upon the press of a final buzzer, sound of a specific noise device, or touch of a specific point outside of the last obstacle.

1. Passing a specific obstacle point or floor location is not acceptable as the final obstacle completion time.

NINJA VS. NINJA

Athletes competing in a Ninja vs. Ninja (NvN) event will race against another athlete in the same division on identical courses.  NvN courses will consist of seven (7) to ten (10) specific obstacles in any order (“Course”) through which the athletes will race to determine a winner.

1. NvN events will be offered at select locations only, and must be pre-approved by FINA Administration before scheduling.
2. NvN events will run as a double elimination bracket.
3. NvN events must consist of two identical courses.  These should ideally be side by side.

1. Obstacle type, size, and hanging height must be the same across both courses.
2. Distance between obstacles and standing/landing platforms must be the same across both courses.
3. One judge (at minimum) will be used for each athlete’s course, resulting in a minimum of two (2) judges per race.

4. Athlete run order for the NvN races will be determined by a preliminary seeding run for each athlete.

1. Each athlete will receive one (1) run through the course to determine run order.

1. Gyms have the discretion to offer more than one seeding run to each athlete.
2. In the event multiple seeding runs are allowed, the best run for the athlete will be used to determine seeding order.

2. Seeding runs will be judged according to traditional FINA Speed Rules.

1. Athletes receive one (1) attempt at each obstacle
2. Athletes will receive one (1) point for each obstacle successfully completed within the time limit.

3. Athletes may run concurrently, consecutively, or by staggered start for the seeding run.

1. Athlete seeding runs will be judged individually for score and time, even if they are run as head to head races.

5. When beginning the elimination races, both competitors will begin at the starting signal.
6. An athlete will receive one (1) opportunity to complete each obstacle.
7. If an athlete fails to complete an obstacle per the rules outlined by the Course Administrator, the athlete’s run will end.

1. It is solely up to the discretion of the Course Administrator or Course Official if the athlete must immediately exit the course upon an obstacle fail.
2. FINA strongly encourages Partner Gyms to allow at least one “runout” run after an obstacle fail to ensure that the athlete has the opportunity to touch all obstacles before their next race.  However, this is not required and is solely up to the individual gym.

8. Each Ninja vs. Ninja race will have a predetermined time limit as set by the Course Administrator.  

1. If both athletes are still on the course when the time runs out, the athlete who completed the most obstacles in the lowest time is the winner.

1. If both athletes are on the same obstacle when time runs out, it is the completion time of the LAST successfully completed obstacle that will be looked at.  Being “further ahead” on the current obstacle is not grounds for win/loss.

9. Every Ninja vs. Ninja course will consist of seven (7) to ten (10) specific obstacle types.

1. Two (2), Three (3), or Four (4) Upper Body Obstacles
2. Two (2) Aerial Obstacles
3. One (1) or Two (2) Balance Obstacles
4. One (1) Agility Obstacle
5. One (1) Ascension Obstacle
6. Obstacles may be placed in any order.

10. The final Ninja vs. Ninja obstacle will be marked as successfully completed (“cleared”), and/or the athlete run time stopped upon the press of a final buzzer, or sound of a specific noise device.

1. Touching a specific point, or passing a specific obstacle point or floor location is not acceptable as the final obstacle completion time.
2. FINA strongly encourages the use of two buzzer specific timers.

QUALIFICATIONS

SECTIONALS

Towards the conclusion of the FINA season, a series of specific Speed and Endurance events will be held, referred to as Sectionals. Athletes must participate in Sectionals to be eligible for the FINA World Championship. Results from Sectionals will determine athlete eligibility for FINA World Championship events.

1. Athletes may qualify for Sectionals in one of three (3) ways.

1. Athletes who successfully complete (“clear”) an individual Speed or Endurance within the predetermined time limit at any FINA Qualifier will automatically earn a spot to compete in that respective Sectional.

1. Athletes who fully clear a Speed Qualifier will be eligible to compete in Speed Sectionals.
2. Athletes who fully clear an Endurance Qualifier will be eligible to compete in Endurance Sectionals.

2. Athletes will be awarded a single point for every obstacle completed prior to expiration of time on the respective course.  Points can accumulate throughout the season from competition to competition, and are accrued for the specific discipline earned.  

1. Athletes that earn 21 Speed points throughout the season will be eligible to compete in Speed Sectionals.
2. Athletes that earn 25 Endurance points throughout the season will be eligible to compete in Endurance Sectionals.

3. The top three (3) finishers in each division at every FINA Qualifier will be eligible to compete in the respective Sectional, regardless of run results.

1. Athletes who place first, second, or third at a FINA Speed Qualifier will be eligible for the Speed Sectionals
2. Athletes who place first, second, or third at a FINA Endurance Qualifier will be eligible for the Endurance Sectionals.
3. Athletes who have previously qualified for FINA Sectional will not be counted when determining the top three finishers in each division at a FINA Qualifier.

1. Athletes who have previously qualified are still eligible to receive the top three (3) podium certificates as provided by FINA.

2. Eligible athletes may compete at any FINA Sectional, regardless of geographical location.
3. FINA Sectionals format shall be the same as the format(s) outlined in this document.

1. Speed Sectionals format shall be the same as FINA Speed as outlined in this document.
2. Endurance Sectionals format shall be the same as FINA Endurance as outlined in this document.

4. Partner gyms who host a FINA Sectional must provide at least one specific obstacle or obstacle set-up that has not been previously practiced on, or used in their gym by any athlete.

INTERNATIONAL - DIRECT

FINA may choose to grant International event status to gyms in geographical areas that do not have a large enough athlete population to allow for a Sectional model to be successful or warranted. International status will apply to the current season ONLY. Results from International Competitions will determine International athlete eligibility for FINA World Championship events.  

1. Athletes may qualify for Finals in one of three (3) ways.

1. The top five (5) finishers in each division at each FINA International course event will be eligible to compete in the respective Final, regardless of run results.

1. Athletes who place first, second, third, fourth, or fifth at a FINA Speed International event will be eligible for the Speed Finals
2. Athletes who place first, second, third, fourth, or fifth at a FINA Endurance International event will be eligible for the Endurance Finals.

2. Athletes who successfully complete (“clear”) an individual Speed or Endurance International course within the predetermined time limit at a FINA International event AND finish sixth, seventh, or eighth in their division will automatically earn a spot to compete in that respective Final.

1. Athletes who fully clear a Speed International event in sixth, seventh, or eighth place will be eligible to compete in Speed Finals.
2. Athletes who fully clear an Endurance International event in sixth, seventh, or eighth place will be eligible to compete in Endurance Finals.

3. Athletes will be awarded a single point for every obstacle completed prior to expiration of time on the respective course.  Points can accumulate throughout the season from competition to competition, and are accrued for the specific discipline earned.  

1. Athletes that earn 14 Speed points throughout the season at International events will be eligible to compete in Speed Finals.
2. Athletes that earn 18 Endurance points throughout the season at International events will be eligible to compete in Endurance Finals.

2. Eligible athletes may compete at any FINA International event, regardless of geographical location.
3. FINA International event format shall be the same as the format(s) outlined in this document.

1. Speed International format shall be the same as FINA Speed as outlined in this document.
2. Endurance International format shall be the same as FINA Endurance as outlined in this document.

4. Partner gyms hosting International FINA events must abide by all additional guidelines and course rules stated in this document.

WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

The FINA season will culminate with the FINA World Championship.  This is a series of three (3) different Final events.  Specific event champions in each division will be crowned in all three Finals events, and a World Champion will be crowned in each division using cumulative individual athlete scores from all three Finals events.

SPEED FINALS

FINA Speed Finals will take the top Speed finishers from Sectionals and have them compete on a modified FINA Speed course to crown an Ultimate Speed Champion (“FINA’s Fastest Ninja”).

1. Athlete Qualification for Speed Finals TBA.
2. Specific Event Rules TBA

ENDURANCE FINALS

FINA Endurance Finals will take the top Endurance finishers from Sectionals and have them compete on a modified FINA Endurance course to crown an Ultimate Endurance Champion (“FINA’s Strongest Ninja”).

1. Athlete Qualification for Endurance Finals TBA
2. Specific Event Rules TBA

NINJA VS. NINJA FINALS

The FINA Ninja vs. Ninja Finals is a series of head-to-head races between athletes in the same division, using both Speed and Endurance obstacles to crown the Overall Ninja Champion.

1. Athlete Qualification for Round of Champions TBA
2. Specific Event Rules TBA

WORLD CHAMPION

Athlete placements from the FINA Speed Finals, FINA Endurance Finals, and FINA Ninja vs. Ninja Finals will be combined to determine the FINA WORLD CHAMPION in each division.  Athletes must compete in all three Finals events to be considered for the World Championship medals and awards.

EXCEPTIONS

Exceptions listed will apply to all FINA competitions and events.

COURSE INTERFERENCE

1. Any instance of course interference that directly interrupts or affects an athlete’s run negatively, or causes an obstacle failure may be grounds for an athlete re-run.

1. If the course interference directly causes the athlete to fail the obstacle, the Course Official or Administrator must immediately stop the athlete’s run and allow for a re-run.
2. The final decision on an athlete re-run based on course interference that did not directly result in an obstacle failure is solely at the discretion and determination of the Course Administrator and Course Official.
3. In the event of a re-run, the athlete must be given at least five (5) minutes before the re-run attempt begins.
4. In the event of a re-run, the athlete’s best course score will be recorded as the final result.

2. Any instance of course interference that does not directly interrupt or negatively affect an athlete’s run or cause an obstacle failure is not grounds for an athlete re-run.

OBSTACLE MALFUNCTION

1. Any obstacle malfunction that directly interrupts or affects an athlete’s run negatively, or causes an obstacle failure may be grounds for an athlete re-run.

1. If the obstacle malfunction directly causes the athlete to fail the obstacle, the Course Official or Administrator must immediately stop the athlete’s run and allow for a re-run.

1. In the event of a re-run based on an obstacle malfunction that caused a direct fail, the athlete’s best course score will be recorded as the final result.

2. The final decision on an athlete re-run based on an obstacle malfunction that did not directly result in an obstacle failure is solely at the discretion and determination of the Course Administrator and Course Official.

1. In the event of a re-run based on an obstacle malfunction that did NOT cause a direct fail, the athlete’s re-run score will be the final score, regardless of whether or not it was better than the replaced run.

3. In the event of a re-run, the athlete must be given at least five (5) minutes before the re-run attempt begins.

2. If an obstacle is damaged or broken in the middle of a division, it must be replaced immediately with an exact replacement.

1. If an exact replacement is unavailable, it must be replaced with a similar obstacle that mimics the same grip, skill, and time necessary for completion.

1. In the event of a non-exact obstacle replacement, all athletes who had failed ONLY that obstacle are entitled to a full course re-run with the possibility of a full course clear.

1. In the event of a re-run, the athlete’s best course score will be recorded as the final result.

2. In the event of a non-exact obstacle replacement, all athletes who had failed that obstacle and others must be given the opportunity to attempt ONLY that obstacle with the possibility of earning back that obstacle point.

TIMING

1. If a timing issue arises that affects the ability to accurately record the athlete’s correct start time and/or final obstacle completion time, the Course Administrator or Official must immediately stop the athlete’s run and allow for a re-run.
2. If a timing issue arises that affects specific obstacle completion times, but does not affect the starting time and/or final accurate obstacle completion time of the athlete, the athlete is not entitled to a re-run.

INJURY

1. Athlete re-runs or additional obstacle attempts due to injury or other voluntary removal from the course during a run attempt are solely up to the determination and discretion of the Course Administrator and Course Official.

RE-RUNS

1. Athlete re-runs should only be awarded when there is no other option to allow for an accurate athlete course score and time.
2. Athletes are not eligible to change the original obstacles results on the affected run up to the point of disruption.

1. For example, if an athlete experiences an obstacle malfunction on obstacle 6 of a FINA course that causes a fail on the obstacle, he/she is entitled to a re-run.  However, on the re-run, the original scores from the affected run on obstacles 1-5 would be recorded by the Judge as the athlete scores on the re-run, regardless of the re-run obstacle results on obstacles 1-5.  Results from the re-run on obstacles 6 and beyond would be recorded by the Course Official correctly, up to and including the final obstacle completion time. With this method, athletes are not able to pass an obstacle on the re-run that they previously failed on the affected run, and there is no advantage given to athletes who require a re-run.
2. Athletes must make a FULL attempt at all obstacles on the re-run. Athletes who do not fully attempt each obstacle to the best of their ability on a re-run are in violation of the Spirit of the Obstacle and the re-run will be halted and invalidated.

3. All athlete re-runs must be conducted before the final results are announced.

ADDENDUM

ATHLETE ELIGIBILITY

FINA is open to all athletes who wish to compete, regardless of skill or experience, provided they abide by the rules listed in this document and fulfill all eligibility guidelines as listed below.

1. All FINA athletes will be eligible to compete in the following age groupings based on the athlete’s age on January 1 of the current season.

1. 7U (5-7 Years Old)
2. 9U (8-9 Years Old)
3. 11U (10-11 Years Old)
4. 13U (12-13 Years Old)
5. Young Adult (14-24 Years Old)
6. Amateur (25+ Years Old)
7. Masters (40+ Years Old)
8. Top Flight (13+ Elite)

2. Athletes within each age grouping will be further separated into Male and Female divisions based on the athlete’s sex as determined at birth.  This creates sixteen (16) specific FINA divisions.

1. 7U Male
2. 7U Female
3. 9U Male
4. 9U Female
5. 11U Male
6. 11U Female
7. 13U Male
8. 13U Female
9. Young Adult Male
10. Young Adult Female
11. Amateur Male
12. Amateur Female
13. Masters Male
14. Masters Female
15. Top Flight Male
16. Top Flight Female

3. Athletes may choose to compete “up” one age division.

1. Adult athletes may not compete “up” to Masters.  All Masters athletes must be age 40+ by the athlete eligibility date listed for the current season.
2. Masters athletes may choose to compete “up” to the Amateur division or Top Flight divisions.
3. Any athlete age 13+ may choose to compete “up” to the Top Flight (Elite) division.

4. Athletes must compete in the same division for the entirety of the FINA season.
5. Registration for, and competition in, a FINA event indicates the athlete’s acceptance of, and willingness to abide by the rules and guidelines outlined in this document as well as the Athlete Code of Conduct posted on the FINA website (FINA.ninja). Any athlete who chooses not to abide by these rules and guidelines will forfeit their eligibility to compete for placement or standing at FINA competitions as well as qualification for FINA Sectionals and Finals.

1. Athletes who choose not to abide by these rules and guidelines are eligible to run in FINA Qualifier events for an individual score and time, separate from FINA scored divisions.  These individual results are not eligible for FINA event placement awards or for Sectional or Final qualifications.

ATTIRE

All athletes must wear at a minimum: a top, a bottom, and appropriate closed-toe, closed-heel, dry shoes.

1. All athletes must adhere to the dress code of the hosting facility.  Adherence to facility dress code will be determined at the sole discretion of the Course Administrator.  
2. Any athlete not in compliance with the FINA or facility dress code will be notified and provided an opportunity to comply.  
3. Failure to adhere to the FINA or facility dress code may result in disqualification from the event without a refund.

COURSE APPROVAL

All FINA courses and obstacles must be pre-approved by the FINA Course Approver prior to the beginning of the FINA event.

1. Partner gyms must provide specific FINA event course and obstacle, design and layout specifications, and expected time limit(s) to the FINA Course Approver no less than five (5) days before the start of the event.
2. Courses and obstacle designs may be submitted for approval in writing or by video walkthrough.
3. The FINA Course Approver has the authority to request the modification, substitution, or removal of any FINA course obstacle that may present a hazard to the course athletes, or potentially violate the course and obstacle rules and guidelines outlined in these Rules.
4. The FINA Course Approver has the authority to adjust the recommended course time limits for all FINA Speed and Endurance Courses.
5. Once approved by the FINA Course Approver, FINA courses may not be changed except in the occurrence of an obstacle malfunction.

1. If a Partner Gym requires modification of an approved FINA course or obstacle that will affect the flow, required skill set, or difficulty level of the course, the gym must contact the Course Approver and get permission for the modification before the start of the FINA event.

6. The FINA Course Approver will work solely to address specific issues with course or obstacles design, or timing issues.  
7. The role of the Course Approver is not to stifle creativity, nor to dictate or create individual FINA courses.

DEFINITIONS

For the purposes of FINA competitions, the following definitions will apply:

GENERAL

1. Course Administrator - the Director or Manager of the FINA event.  Can also be the Course Designer.
2. Course Official - the Official in charge of judging and deciding the ultimate outcome of each athlete’s obstacle attempt(s).  Can also be in charge of the timing system.
3. Partner Gym - the Manager, Owner, or Head of the gym that is hosting a FINA event.  This is specific to the individual gym hosting, not the overall Management or Franchise Corporation.

OBSTACLE TYPE

1. Agility - obstacles that test an athlete’s coordination, balance, and agility. Traditionally a lower body obstacle.  Common examples include, but are not limited to: Sonic Curve, Floating Steps, Lily Pads.
2. Aerial -  obstacles that cause an athlete to “fly” through the air.  These test an athlete’s flexibility, grace, and body control.  Upper body obstacles.  Common examples include, but are not limited to: Flywheels, Lache Bars, Rope Swing.
3. Ascension - obstacles that force the athlete to move in a continuous upwards motion.  Can be upper body or lower body.  Common examples include, but are not limited to: Warped Wall, Cargo Net Climb, Angled Ladder.
4. Balance - obstacles that test an athlete’s balance, coordination, and body control. Traditionally a lower body obstacle. Common examples include, but are not limited to: Teeter Totter, Rolling Log, Unstable Bridge.
5. Upper Body - obstacles that specifically use the arm, shoulder, and back muscles or test grip strength.  Common examples include, but are not limited to: Cliffhanger, Hold Lines (continuous line of different grip holds), Inverted Steps.

*Many obstacles meet the definition of more than one category, and obstacles may be designed to incorporate two or more categories into a single obstacle.  These definitions should be used as guidelines only, and in no way should stifle or limit the creativity of our Partner Gyms and their Course Designers in creating FINA courses.

LINKING

The following guidelines will apply to all “linked” obstacle attempts.

FORCED (MANDATORY) LINKS

1. FINA Endurance courses may contain “forced” linked obstacles.  These are multiple obstacles through which the athlete MUST progress without using a landing platform between obstacles.

1. There is no limit as to how many obstacles may be linked.
2. A linked obstacle will be marked as complete when the athlete has full grip and/or control of the second obstacle and has fully released the first obstacle.
3. In the event of a linked obstacle fail, the athlete must immediately progress to the next obstacle in the course order, at which there must be provided the means to re-mount the course and continue through the obstacle progression.
4. A fail on a linked obstacle may only count as a fail for that particular obstacle, and not for the entirety of the linked set.
5. A fail during the transition between two obstacles in a “forced” link set will constitute a fail on the first obstacle.  The athlete must immediately re-mount the course at the beginning of the second obstacle in the linked set and begin that obstacle’s attempt.

2. FINA Speed courses may NOT contain “forced” linked obstacles.

UNFORCED (OPTIONAL) LINKS

1. Athletes may choose to attempt to link obstacles in FINA events.

1. The allowance of “linking” obstacles is solely up to the discretion of the Course Administrator and Course Official. FINA strongly recommends that it be allowed in linear Speed courses, but it is not mandatory for Partner Gyms to allow it.
2. There is no limit as to how many obstacles may be linked.
3. If an athlete is linking obstacles, the first obstacle shall be marked as successfully completed when the athlete has full grip and/or control of the second linked obstacle and has fully released the first obstacle.
4. If an athlete fails during the transition of an “unforced” link and falls into the second obstacle’s field of play, the athlete will lose both obstacle points.

1. As the athlete was provided with the opportunity to land the first obstacle and CHOSE not to use it, this is the only time when a single fail can eliminate two potential points (the athlete did not successfully land the first obstacle, and fell into the field of play of the second obstacle before showing control, hence the fail on both obstacles).

SPIRIT OF THE OBSTACLE

TIMING ADJUSTMENTS

Time limits for all courses must remain the same for all runs in a specific division or age group.

1. FINA strongly recommends adding 15-20% additional time to the age group time limits for both Speed and Endurance courses in the following divisions for all Qualifier and Sectional events (adding time is not mandatory, and is at the discretion of the Partner Gym):

1. 13U Female
2. Young Adult Female
3. Adult Female
4. Masters Female
5. Top Flight Female

2. If, after the first run of all competitors on a FINA Speed course, no one has come within three (3) seconds of the set time limit, the time limit for the second run of ALL athletes within that division may be adjusted by up to 10% of the initial time limit.

1. This adjusted time will only count for the second run of each competitor, and no additional runs will be given at the new time.