Cut Buoy

A turn-around buoy infraction is when an athlete fails to turn around the buoy appropriately in an event. Turning the buoy is critical for the course of the race in triathlons and open-water competitions. Failing to make the turns as prescribed can result in penalty or even disqualification. When an athlete “cuts” the buoy by failing to turn in the proper direction, he will need to re-traverse in order to turn the buoy appropriately. The rule is in place in order to ensure that the event remains even and results accurate.