Austrian Sports Badge

The Austrian Sports Badge (German: Das Österreichische Sport- und Turnabzeichen, ÖSTA) is a decoration presented for physical fitness by the Republic of Austria.

History
The Austrian Sports Badge was created in 1920 as a sports badge, similar to other sports badges offered by Germany or Sweden. The decoration is awarded in gold, silver, and bronze. The Austrian Sports Badge can also awarded to juveniles and to handicapped persons with special requirements.

Requirements
Requirements vary according to age, gender, and the class.

The badge
There are a total of 9 different badges, that may be awarded.

There is a basic (Grundstufe) and an advanced (Leistungsstufe) badge for adults that may be divided into 3 different classes; Bronze, Silver and Gold. For youth there is only the 3 classes; Bronze, Silver and Gold.

The basic and advanced badges are given depending on the physical fitness of the participant, and the Bronze/Silver/Gold classes is given depending on the age of the participant. Bronze is given for participants age 18-29, Silver for age 30-39 and Gold for age 40 and above.

For youth (age 13-18) the level of the badge is calculated with both age, gender and level of physical fitness.

Upon successful completion of the requirements, a certificate and the badge as cloth patch are awarded. Receiving the award as a metal badge is optional. Depending on regulations, the badge may be worn on uniforms.

Repetitive completions of the award are indicated by numbers (5, 10, 15, 20, etc. ) on the award.