Code of Conduct

---

The Texas Youth Trail Championship Series, organized by Fit Foundation, is committed to providing a positive, safe, and fair environment for young athletes to experience the joys of trail running. This Code of Conduct has been developed to ensure that all participants, parents, guardians, and spectators contribute to creating an atmosphere that aligns with our mission of promoting youth engagement in trail running and fostering an inclusive community environment.

By participating in or attending our events, all individuals agree to uphold the principles outlined in this Code of Conduct. We expect everyone involved to demonstrate good sportsmanship, respect for fellow participants, volunteers, and race officials, and to prioritize safety and fair play at all times. This includes following all rules and guidelines set by race organizers, respecting the natural environment in which our events take place, and supporting the positive development of all young athletes involved.

Violations of this Code of Conduct will not be tolerated and may result in disciplinary action. Unsportsmanlike conduct, including but not limited to physical aggression, verbal abuse, intentional cheating, or disrespect towards race officials or volunteers, is strictly prohibited. We understand that trail running can be challenging and emotions can run high, but we expect all participants and spectators to manage their emotions in a positive manner that does not detract from the experience of others.

The integrity of our age and grade divisions is crucial to ensuring fair competition. It is the responsibility of parents and guardians to ensure that their children are registered and participating in the correct division based on their age or grade level at the start of the series. Participating in an incorrect division is considered a violation of this Code of Conduct and may result in point deductions or disqualification.

Safety is our top priority, and as such, we have implemented specific policies to protect our young athletes. Adults, including parents and coaches, are not permitted on the race course or in the finish line area during races, except in cases of emergency. Pacing runners from off-course is also prohibited as it provides an unfair advantage and can pose safety risks. Additionally, to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants, pets are not allowed at our events, with the exception of service animals (which should be notified to organizers in advance).

Proper equipment is essential for safe trail running. All participants must wear appropriate running shoes. Cleats, spikes, or open-toed shoes are not permitted on our courses. We reserve the right to prevent participation if an athlete's footwear is deemed unsafe for trail running conditions.

While we encourage enthusiasm and support, we remind all attendees that the Texas Youth Trail Championship Series is primarily about providing a positive experience for young athletes. Disputes about race results or decisions made by race officials should be handled calmly and respectfully. Aggressive or confrontational behavior regarding race results, or verbal abuse towards race officials or volunteers, is considered a serious violation of this Code of Conduct.

In the event of a violation, Fit Foundation reserves the right to take disciplinary action as deemed appropriate. This may include issuing an official warning, deducting points, disqualifying an athlete from a race, removing a participant from the series, or in severe cases, implementing a ban from future events. The severity of the disciplinary action will be commensurate with the nature and frequency of the violation. In cases of severe misconduct that threatens the safety or well-being of others, immediate disqualification may occur without prior warning.

By registering for the Texas Youth Trail Championship Series, participants and their guardians acknowledge that they have read, understood, and agree to abide by this Code of Conduct. They also understand and accept that violations may result in the aforementioned disciplinary actions, including the possibility of removal from the series without refund.

Fit Foundation, as the organizer of the Texas Youth Trail Championship Series, reserves the right to make final decisions on all matters related to this Code of Conduct. Our goal is to create a positive, encouraging, and fair environment where young athletes can challenge themselves, improve their running skills, and develop a lasting appreciation for trail running and the natural environment. We believe that by adhering to this Code of Conduct, all participants, families, and spectators can contribute to making our events enjoyable, safe, and memorable experiences for everyone involved.