First, paddlers are classified based on their age as of December 31 of the current year. Rusty Sage, USA Junior, cranks it up on the Fulljames wave Photo by Keith Hughes Class Paddler Age Junior 18 and under Senior 19 - 39 Masters 40 and up Juniors are defined as 18 and under. If the paddler turns 18 on or after January 1st, the paddler is a junior throughout that calendar year until December 31st. If the paddler turns eighteen on December 31st, the very next day the paddler becomes a senior and competes in the senior class. Competitors in the Junior and Masters age categories may apply to participate in the Senior Pro class out of the Expert class in their respective age categories.
Competitors can initially choose their own category.
A competitor could choose to begin in Sport or Expert. To progress to the next level, a competitor must meet the requirements of that category. The Beginner level helps the paddler get familiar with paddling in competition. Judging is composed of technical and style only. After placing in the top five in three events over a 1-year period, a Beginner paddler must advance to the Sport category.