By January 1, 2026, Athletics Canada (AC) plans to have completed the transformation of the Canadian Masters Association (CMA) into Athletics Canada. The process is currently in motion.
A media release reads, “As part of its 2028 Strategic Plan, AC is committed to fostering increased membership and participation across all levels of our sport, including grassroots, school, and masters athletics. This focus aligns with our shared passion for nurturing the growth of athletics in Canada.
AC had already recognized masters athletics when an athlete turns 35, formerly age 40. However, the CMA certified records for all masters categories in all ages 35 and above, in five and 10-year age groups, for example, 35-39, 40-44, or 40-49, 50-59.
“Based on discussions with its member branches, AC determined that it now has the capacity, resources, and eagerness to take a more active role in supporting and growing the Masters athletics community. AC has invested in expanding operational capacity and developing a robust foundation of gold-standard policies and services in areas such as safe sport, coaching, officiating, program delivery and athlete support. AC is now well-positioned to deliver high-quality programming and experiences to welcome the masters community.”
AC is committed to managing U20 (junior), paralympians, and, of course, athletes on the international path with the ultimate goal of the Olympic Games.
AC has already initiated the following:
Secure hosts for the 2026/2027 Indoor and Outdoor Canadian Masters Athletics Championships.
A Masters Coordinator staff position has been created and posted.
Terms of reference for an AC Masters Committee are under active development.
Work is underway to integrate masters into Athletics Canada’s communication channels.
Canadian Masters Association
The CMA was founded in 1972. The organization began as a group of 40-plus Canadian runners who travelled for competition.
The CMA is or was Canada’s only masters association in the country for runners. Meanwhile, there are at least two world associations hosting their own separate world masters championships.
The organization is recognized by World Masters Athletics (WMA) as a promoter and coordinator of events in track & field, cross country, road racing, and race walking for masters athletes. Membership is open to anyone interested in masters and sub-masters sports (30 and older).
