BAGCATS (British Age Group Categories) are a point-based system operated by the ASA. The aim is to promote and encourage development across multiple strokes and distances for girls under 14 and boys under 15.
In order to take part in a BAGCAT competition, a swimmer enters and competes in at least one event from each of the following categories:
| Sprint | 50m Backstroke, Breaststroke or Butterfly | All ages |
| Form | 200m Backstroke, Breaststroke or Butterfly | All Ages |
| Distance | 200m Freestyle 400m Freestyle |
9-10 year olds 11-12 year olds |
| Individual Medley | 100m Individual Medley 200m Individual Medley |
9 year olds 10-1 2 year olds |
Points are scored for each event, dependent upon time swum, contributing to an overall score and position. If you enter more than 1 event in any category it is only the “best” score that counts towards the overall competition.
Usually competitors are restricted to 6 events, 2 sprints. 2 form events plus the Distance and Medley swims.
Points awarded are calculated from tables devised by FINA.