What is the difference between a novice and an age grouper?

[Plainsman]

As I mentioned in my last thread, my first tri (a sprint) is in march. How should I register? What is the difference between registering as a novice and an age grouper? I'm anxious to get signed up but could not find any info on the USAT site about what qualifies one for the novice category. I naturally assumed that since I have never competed in a tri, that is what I should do. Am I correct in this assumption?

[cslone]

I've never heard the distinction. Maybe it's something the RD is doing to help out the new guys in their own wave? Best bet is to email the RD and see what he/she says.

Normally and AG'er is just regular non-elite average joe, no matter how fast or slow.

[cjbruin]

I've seen it before. It's essentially a division for newbies. I personally would just sign up for my age group.

[Tri-John]

I agree with cjbruin, sign up for your ago group.

[Plainsman]

Thanks folks. Before these last two posts I went ahead and signed up as a novice. I think I have the option to bump up if I choose though.