Biological Maturity Status Strongly Intensifies the Relative Age Effect in Alpine Ski Racing

摘要: The relative age effect (RAE) is a well-documented phenomenon in youth sports. This exists when the quarter distribution of selected athletes shows biased with an over-representation relatively older athletes. In alpine ski racing, it all categories (national levels up to World Cup). Studies so far could demonstrate that racers are older, taller and heavier. It be hypothesized younger nearly only have chance for selection if they early maturing. However, surprisingly this influence biological maturity status on RAE not proven, yet. Therefore, aim present study was investigate dependence level competition. investigated 372 elite racers: 234 provincial (P-SR; high competition) 137 national (N-SR; very competition). Anthropometric characteristics were measured calculate at peak height velocity (APHV) as indicator status. A significant among both P-SR N-SR, larger size latter group. N-SR significantly differed APHV from P-SR. normal, late maturing expected normal Hardly any present; 41.7% male 34% female last These findings clearly process racing Relatively seem