When can I compete as a masters athlete, and how is my age group set?
Rule- South Africa
- Athletics South Africa
- SAMA
- World Masters Athletics rules
- Masters athletics
- Masters 35+
- 2026/27
- Athletes
Under ASA Rule 38.1 (SAMA age categories):
- You can compete as a masters athlete from your 35th birthday.
- Your age group is set by your age on the day of competition. For multi-day events, it's your age on the first day (ASA Rule 23.1).
- Masters competitions use 5-year age groups:
| Age | Men | Women |
|---|---|---|
| 35-39 | M35 | W35 |
| 40-44 | M40 | W40 |
| 45-49 | M45 | W45 |
| 50-54 | M50 | W50 |
| 55-59 | M55 | W55 |
| 60-64 | M60 | W60 |
| 65-69 | M65 | W65 |
| 70-74 | M70 | W70 |
| 75-79 | M75 | W75 |
Added 22 Oct 2026