Guidance on Number Swapping

While the practice may be seen as completely innocent, it causes huge headaches for organisers and can have major impacts on the health and safety of those involved.

The issues arise when a participant is involved in an incident, or takes ill during the event. Normally event organisers hold basic medical information, which can be passed onto the relevant authorities, and the majority of events use bib numbers which provide space for medical information on the back.

If the bib number has been swapped, there is the risk of medical information being incorrect, which could result in a potentially life-threatening incident.

Swapping bib numbers, without notifying the event organisers, could also impact negatively on fellow competitors and is unfair to other runners who may have missed out on a sold-out event. Many events host waiting lists, for those who have missed the entry deadlines and number swapping may be taking the opportunity away from someone else.

Many organisers allow participants to transfer their numbers before a certain deadline or within a certain transfer window. Athletics NI would like to encourage participants to reach out to the Event Organisers to ensure they are aware of the relevant number swapping policies. Any number swapping must be approved by the Event Organisers.

Any individuals found to have swapped numbers without the permission of the Event Organiser will be disqualified from the event. Both runners will be subject to disciplinary action and Athletics NI holds the right to put sanctions in place for any repeat offences.

We appreciate the cooperation of our athletics community and strive to ensure that our sport continues in a safe and supportive manner for all.