Section 5: Rules of Play
5.1 Competition Format
- Olympic and World Championship: 4 runs over 2 days (2 runs per day). Combined cumulative time of all 4 runs determines the final ranking.
- World Cup: 2 runs in a single day (combined time). Top 20 after run 1 advance to run 2.
- Training: 3–6 official training runs over the days preceding competition; athletes must complete a minimum number to be eligible to race
5.2 The Start
- Athlete positions the sled at the start block, gripping the front handles (bumpers)
- On the start signal (green light or audible tone), the athlete sprints while pushing the sled for 30–40 m
- After building maximum speed, the athlete dives head-first, face-down (prone) onto the sled
- The start is the only phase where the athlete can generate speed — after loading, momentum comes entirely from gravity
- Start time (measured over approximately 50 m) is a critical performance differentiator; top athletes complete the push phase in under 5 seconds
- A false start (leaving before the signal) requires the athlete to return and restart
5.3 Sliding and Steering
- Athletes steer by shifting body weight: pressing the right shoulder into the sled to turn left, and vice versa
- Knee pressure against the sled frame provides additional directional control
- Toe spikes dragged lightly on the ice surface create friction on one side for fine steering adjustments
- Head position affects aerodynamics; athletes keep their chin tucked and body streamlined
- Arms are held tight alongside the body or sled after loading; arms dragging on ice results in friction and time loss
- No mechanical steering devices, brakes, or moving parts on the sled are permitted
5.4 Finishing
- Athlete must cross the finish line on the sled to receive a valid time
- If the athlete separates from the sled before the finish (crash, ejection): DNF (Did Not Finish)
- If the athlete crashes but remains on the sled and crosses the finish line: time is valid
- After crossing the finish, the athlete rides into the deceleration zone and uses toe spikes and body drag to slow the sled
5.5 Equipment Inspection Between Runs
- Sleds are weighed after each run; combined weight (sled + athlete) verified against the maximum
- Runner temperature measured immediately at the finish area after each run
- Sled dimensions and runner profiles may be checked against IBSF templates at any point during competition
- Any modification to the sled between inspection and the start is prohibited