A recent policy put into place by Athletics Canada (AC), will affect race walking, running, jumping and throwing masters records in Canada, including race walking, road running (5K, 8K, 10K, 1/2 marathon, marathon and Ultra 24 hours) records. It is profoundly against all principles of masters athletics set out by the World Masters Rankings (WMA). The specific rule change allows an older masters athlete to break a record in a younger age category whenever event specifications are identical. For instance, a 50-year-old running a fast time in a 100m sprint could overwrite the records for the 35–39, 40–44, or 45-49 brackets and hold records in the those brackets even if they never competed at those ages.

For the benefit of anyone also asking about the exact wording, here it is:

7.4 Masters Records: Recognition Across Age Groups

MOTION
That, for Masters records, performances by athletes in older Masters age groups that exceed records of younger Masters age groups be recognized as records in the younger age categories, thereby aligning Masters record practice with the existing practice in the sport across other age groups.

Moved by: Mr. Paul Osland (Ontario)

Seconded by: Mr. Kyle Williams (Saskatchewan)

Opposed: None

CARRIED 

 

7.5 Retroactive Application of Masters Records Rule

MOTION
That the newly approved Masters records rule (recognition of older Masters age-group performances as younger age-group records) be made retroactive, and that the Rules Committee review all existing Masters records and make changes as technically appropriate.

Moved by: Paul Osland (Ontario)

Seconded by: Dave Thomas (New Brunswick) 

Abstained: Saskatchewan

CARRIED 

 

To better understand the impact, consider the countless athletes who have balanced their commitments, family responsibilities, and work just to pursue their athletic dreams. The records these dedicated individuals set are milestones that inspire younger generations and bring international recognition to Canadian sports. Altering the rules to disregard these achievements not only disrespects those efforts but also sends a counterproductive message about the value of lifetime fitness and competitive spirit at any age.

These disciplines represent not only personal milestones but also a testament to the endurance, perseverance, and dedication that define Masters Athletes. Many have devoted countless hours, immense resources, and boundless passion to achieving these records, which this policy now threatens to undermine.

As a devoted and passionate member of the Athletics Canada community, specifically the Masters segment, I am writing to express my deep concern and urging for the immediate rescindment of this new policy that dramatically affects us all. This recent change imposed by Athletics Canada (AC) threatens the integrity and the very essence of Masters Athletics by disregarding the standards set by the World Masters Rankings (WMA). This decision profoundly impacts running, jumping, and throwing masters records, harming not only individual achievements but also the broader spirit and camaraderie fostered within our community.

We understand that rules and policies sometimes need revision, but such changes must uphold transparent, inclusive decision-making processes involving all stakeholders within Athletics Canada.

Revisiting the decision-making process to include consultation with athletes, coaches, and the Masters community at large is crucial.

Respectfully,

Karla Del Grande 

 

 

 

 

We call upon Athletics Canada to properly engage with the community, revisiting this policy to ensure it aligns with the WMA's principles and preserves our athletes' achievements and aspirations. I sincerely urge everyone who believes in fair recognition of athletic excellence and the values of sportsmanship at all levels of age to sign this petition, supporting this plea for an equitable future in Masters Athletics across Canada.