As a way to make competitions fairer, competitors are separated into AGE-GROUPS and GRADES depending on their ability, so that they are only ever competing against people of a similar standard. Below are all the different grades and the rules associated with them.
AGE GROUPS (For competitions in 2008)
Under 9 - Born in or after 2000
Under 11 - Born in 1998 or 1999
Under 13 - Born in 1996 or 1997
Under 15 - Born in 1994 or 1995
Under 17 - Born in 1992 to 1993
Over 17 - Born in 1991 or before.
Under 19 - Born in 1990 to 1991
Over 19 - Born in 1989 or before.
GRADES
Grade 6 - Basic shapes and twists. No somersaults.
Grade 5 - In this grade, competitors may do simple front and back somersaults. This grade is not open to anyone who has competed at Grade 4 or higher. Competitors may remain at Grade 5 as long as they wish and can choose to progress to grade 4 at any time if they wish.
Grade 4 - Shaped somersaults and barani's are often done in routines. Anyone can choose to start competing in this grade. Competitors may remain at Grade 4 as long as they wish and but must obtain a qualifying score to progress to Grade 3.
Grade 3 - More complicated shaped somarsaults are found in this grade such as straight back, pike barani etc. Competitors may remain at Grade 3 as long as they wish and but must obtain a qualifying score to progress to Grade 2.
Grade 2 - Somersaults such as crash dive, lazy back and ball outs are common in this grade. To progress from Grade 2 to Grade 1, the performer must qualify for the Grade 2 Finals AND score a minimum of 22.0 for the set routine for their relevant Grade 1 age group in front of a validation panel.. There is no compulsory progression to Grade 1.
QUALIFICATION