Results for the Buzz Oates RunSac Race Series will be calculated using the international age-grading tables. These tables use statistics gathered over many years of performances by runners of all ages. Some of the internal workings of age grading are technical, but it can be simply explained as a way to determine an “age grading percentage” for each runner for a given performance. This percentage is the percentage of the expected world record for that age, based on statistics of what other runners of that age and other ages have done. For example, for a 42-year old male runner, the expected age world record for 5k based on the tables is 13:51 (pretty fast!). If a 42-year old runner runs a 16:36 at a race, he will be given an age-grading percentage of 83.47, the difference between his actual time and the expected age world record. Age grading accurately compares performances among competitors in all age groups.

Age-Graded Tables Establish the Following Standards of Performance Levels:

• Over 90% = World Class
• Over 80% = National Class
• Over 70% = Regional Class
• Over 60% = Local Class

Practical Uses of the Age-Graded Tables:

• Adjust a performance to what it would have been (or will be) in your prime.
• Compare a current performance to a performance in your prime.
• Track your progress over the years.
• Race your friends “fairly” – male or female, younger or older.
• Compare your performances with anyone of any age or gender.
• Enable those at the upper end of age groups to compete on an equal level with those at the middle and lower end of the age groups.
• Run races with time handicaps like the No Excuses 5k.
• Rewarding the truly superior runners regardless of age through a running series like the Buzz Oates RunSac Race Series.

For an age-graded calculator:

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