Masters division
[mas-terz dih-vizh-un]
/ˈmæstərz dɪˈvɪʒən/
Noun
A competitive category in sports or competitions for participants typically over a certain age, often 35 or 40, allowing older athletes to compete against peers of similar age.
The Masters division in running is for athletes typically aged 35 and older, allowing them to compete against peers of similar age. This category acknowledges the physiological changes that occur with aging, such as decreased muscle mass and slower recovery. Real-world examples include the World Masters Athletics Championships and local Masters races. It matters to runners as it provides a fair competitive environment, encourages lifelong participation in the sport, and fosters community among older athletes. Masters runners often focus on age-graded performances, which compare their times to world records for their age group.