The Competition Year for cross country races runs from 1 October to 30 September of the following year. For championships and other races such as leagues young athletes are grouped into age categories.
Young Athletes
- Under 13 races are only for competitors who are aged 11 on the day of competition, or 12 on 31 August prior to the commencement of the Competition Year.
- Under 15 races are only for competitors who are aged 13 or 14 on 31 August prior to the commencement of the Competition Year.
- Under 17 races are only for competitors who are aged 15 or 16 on 31 August prior to the commencement of the Competition Year.
- Under 11’s no championship competition is provided for Under 11’s, however the Chiltern Cross Country League does host under 11 races and club members can run.
U20 / Junior Men & Women
Cross Country competitions for Junior Men and Women are confined to competitors who are aged 17, 18 or 19 on 31 August prior to the commencement of the Competition Year.
Senior Men and Women
For Cross Country competitions a Senior is a competitor who is aged at least 20 on 31 August prior to the commencement of the Competition Year. Junior Men and Women may compete in Senior events as appropriate and subject to the maximum distances for their age group not being exceeded.
Master Athletes
A Master must be at least 35 years of age on the day of competition. Masters then compete in 5 year age groups. The athlete must be at least the specified age on the day of competition.
Age Group Maximum Distance Men and Women
- Under 13 years 3500 metres
- Under 15 years 5000 metres
- Under 17 years 6500 metres
- Under 20 years 10000 metres
- Seniors unlimited distance.
