What is the age requirement for competing in the Olympics?

Answer by  AtlantaGal (33)

In order to compete in the Olympic games, you must be at least sixteen years of age. In times past, the age requirement was younger, but has since been changed. In the 2008 Olympics there was some controversy over age requirements due to China's Womens Gymnastics team, who appeared to be younger than permitted.

Answer by  sc773 (79)

There isn't one for "Olympics" but each sport has their own federation and rules for ages. Some don't have them. For example, in Beijing Olympics, a 12-year old swimmer. Or in gymnastics, rules say must turn 16 during the Olympic year, but younger ones have won it (15).

Answer by  John (9008)

The governing body for each sport set the age requirements, if any, for competition. Some sports do not have any age limits, but these are generally sports in which only adults can realistically compete at an elite level. Some sports that favor the very young, such as women's gymnasitcs, do have rigid minimum ages.

Answer by  TwoToneDodge (2204)

The age requirement for competition in the Olympics is 16. Though this has been a set requirement for years other countries abuse this law. Currently many competitors have been questioned about their actual birth date. The younger the athlete the more time she has to rack up on medals and some believe have better agility an felxability.