1. What is Masters Athletics Age Grading?

Age grading is a method used in masters athletics to allow comparison of performances between different age groups. It provides a percentage score that indicates how a performance compares to the world record for that age group.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the age grading formula:

Where:

• \( Age\ Standard \) — World record time for the specific age group (minutes)
• \( Time \) — The athlete's performance time (minutes)

Explanation: The equation compares an athlete's performance to the world record standard for their age group, expressed as a percentage.

3. Importance of Age Grading

Details: Age grading allows fair comparison between athletes of different ages and helps track performance improvements over time, even as athletes age.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the age standard time (world record for the specific age group) and the athlete's performance time, both in minutes. All values must be valid (greater than 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Where can I find age standard times?
A: Age standard times are published by World Masters Athletics and other governing bodies for various events and age groups.

Q2: What is a good age grading percentage?
A: Generally, 90%+ is world class, 80%+ is national class, 70%+ is regional class, and 60%+ is local class.

Q3: Does this work for all track and field events?
A: The concept applies to all events, but each event has its own specific age standards.

Q4: How often are age standards updated?
A: Typically every few years as world records are broken and more data becomes available.

Q5: Can I use this for team sports?
A: No, this system is specifically designed for individual athletic performances.