In 2004, Junior Ski racers were allowed to participate at all APBA events, including the APBA Watercross Nationals, beginning at 12 years old. While the minimum age at APBA events was 12 years old in 2004, the IJSBA kept the age at 14 for the World Finals.

"We are very pleased that the IJSBA has reduced the age to 10 for the 2005 World Finals. APBA will also allow racers beginning at 10 years old to race in the Juniors Ski class at regional events," said APBA's Patrick Mell. "We are hopeful that all promoters will be able to offer the lower age Junior Ski classes, but we ask that Junior Ski racers to please contact their local race promoter to make sure that their permits will allow them to offer that class."

"I am excited about the opportunity to get the younger riders involved in our sport at an earlier age, " said IJSBA Managing Director Biorn Tangeland. "Several countries allow 10 year old racers, but they have not been able to participate at World Finals because of the previous age limit of 14."

This change affects Freestyle and three Junior classes in the ski division only. (Juniors are not allowed to race in the Runabout class and the age limit remains at 16 years old to race in the Runabout classes). They 2005 APBA and IJSBA World Finals Junior Ski classes are: Junior Ski 10-12 Stock, Junior Ski 13-15 Stock and Junior Ski 13-15 Limited.

Riders from these classes will be eligible to compete at the APBA Watercross Nationals and the World Finals. Additional information will be available in the near future regarding qualifying for World Finals and registering to participate at regional races.