From 1st April 2026, the age groups for UK Athletics are changing. This post sets out the new groups, competition regulation distances, weights and sizes, and the anticipated progressions.
Age Groups
The age groups themselves are switching from largely odd numbered ages (U13, U15, U17 and U20) to even numbers age groups (U12, U14, U16, U18, U20). The table below shows how school years map to age groups:
The ‘cut-off’ date for everyone up to U18 will be 31st August. This means the athletes age on the 31st August determines the age group they compete in for the whole season that follows.
Event Progressions
With these changes, the distances, weights and sizes of the events have be realigned. The tables below show the competition progressions for track & field, cross-country, and endurance events:
Hurdles
In addition to the above, the following specifications apply for hurdles:
Steeplechase
In addition to the above, the following specifications apply for steeplechase:
Throws
In addition to the above, the following specifications apply for throws:
