According to sources close to British Cycling, there are plans to scrap the masters category for men at the National Cross Country events next year. The impact of his will mean that many regional events will follow suit. Allegedly, the women's masters category is being amalgamated with expert and sport into one category too.
The Masters is a well established category across many sports and the reasons for its removal don't appear to be obvious.
When asked, British Cycling declined to comment (but didn't deny the plans), but did say they will be releasing further information next week.