How do Masters categories work, and can Masters race Elite?

Question

Accepted Answer

Masters age groups (men and women): A 35-44, B 45-54, C 55-64, D 65+.

Masters status is for athletes aged 35 or older as of 31 December of the season who elect it. A rider turning 35 must choose Elite or Master for the whole season, when applying for the licence each year. Elite is ages 23 to 34; a rider aged 35 or older can ask for an Elite licence to race the Elite calendar.

Masters licence holders need their provincial association's approval to race Elite at provincial competitions, and Cycling Canada's approval for national competitions. At events on the UCI calendar, Masters riders cannot enter an Elite event.
A Master licence holder who wants to race Elite at provincial events but Master at national and international events takes a Master licence and asks the provincial association for an upgrade letter.
A Master athlete licensed as Elite cannot compete as a Master at National Championships.

Source: Cycling Canada 2026 Companion Guide, Part IV, Chapter 1; Cycling Canada Licence Memo, 1 December 2025.