Competing in Athletics Competitions is defined by Age groups. Age groups are specified by UK Athletics Rules for Competition.
The Competition Year shall extend from 1st October to 30th September in the following year.
UK Athletics Defines Competition Age Groups and these are changing as of April 2026;
Under 10's Boys and Girls
UK Athletics Rules do not specifically cater for athletes under the age of 11 years. This does not necessarily preclude provision by organisers of competitions for events for athletes younger than 10 years, with correspondingly reduced distances to be run and lighter implements to be used.
Seniors
A Senior is a competitor who is at least 20 years of age on 31st December in the calendar year of competition.
Masters
Events for Masters shall be confined to athletes who are at least 35 years of age on the day of competition.
The ultimate goal for all our members is to compete and be the best. We want you all to become Olympians. However, that is the icing on the cake and before you get there this is the route to the top as an athlete:
The Club participates in number of league meetings;
In order to move up league rankings, we need to fill all the athletics events, including sprints, jumps, throws, middle distance and hurdles.
All members are required to participate in league competitions and must compete in 75% of available league competitions. This means you may be asked to compete in a discipline you normally do not compete in (note: we will never ask you to do anything you haven't tried before).
Please remember to bring your club vest to all competitions and if you don't have one you can purchase one from Paul Lockyer. The Team Managers don't provide vests and unfortunately we have no spare kits.
Open meetings are your opportunity to get a good competition, improve your PB and participate in events you desire. The club supports the participation in open meetings, however if these clash with League event, you will be required to attend the league competition.
The participation in county competitions is generally by selection based on achieving county and national standards; however you are able to register for some county competitions yourself (please note competitions fees are payable). Liaise directly with your school.
Sutton and District AC supports the participation of our athletes in Surrey School competitions and works with the school team managers to recommend the club athletes for participation in this event. Achieved standards and placing in Surrey School Competition could lead to selection to representing Surrey County in English School Championships.
Athletes, who have achieved national standards, may be invited to compete at National or even International Level. Past and present members have competed in European and World Championships as well as Olympics.
