How old do I have to be to race a surf ski or surf boat?
Rule- Australia
- Surf Life Saving Australia
- Surf Sports Manual 38th Edition
- Surf sports
- Under 8 to Masters
- Ages 7+
- 2026/27
- Competitors
- Surf skis (single, double and ski relays, and open Ironman races containing a ski): you must be in the Under 17 age category, which means turning 15 by 30 September in the competition year.
- Surf boats: minimum 15 years of age, and a proficient Bronze Medallion holder (or someone who has met the Bronze Medallion prerequisites, for limited non-championship competition).
- Under 15s who turn 15 during the season and gain the Bronze Medallion: they can compete in Under 17 team events and in Under 19 to Open surf boat competition, and can be a handler in surf belt races. They cannot compete on a ski or double ski until they are in the Under 17 category.
For training on SLSA-owned craft, the Manual's usage policy sets a minimum of 13 years of age (as at 30 September) on skis, and 14 years of age in surf boats (non-high intensity training with a qualified sweep), for proficient Surf Rescue Certificate holders or those who have met the Bronze Medallion prerequisites.
Added 24 Oct 2026