Why are chip times not used for results at running events?
Added by admin | Thursday 12th of September 2024
As a race timing company we always get asked "why are races not based upon the chip time?" Here is a brief overview of gun and chip times and what we use at various events. We provide the results based upon what the events ask for and they can differ between events.
Chip Time or Net Time
This is the precise time it takes an individual runner to complete the race. It starts when the runner crosses the starting line and ends when they cross the finish line. Chip times are usually faster than gun times because there can be a delay between the race start and when a runner begins due to the crowd at the starting line.
The chip time is always provided for informational purposes to provide an accurate time for individual runners.
Gun Time
The Gun time is the total time elapsed from the official race start to the moment a runner finishes. It includes any delay between the gun going off and a runner crossing the starting line. Gun time is generally used for determining overall rankings, records, and awards in certified races.
Official Results
Official race results are typically determined based on the gun time. This is the time from the official start of the race to when each participant crosses the finish line. Gun time is used to determine the overall winner and the finishing order of the race thereafter.
For example, in marathons and other races, the gun time is the standard for official results, world records, and qualifications for major competitions.
Official Races
As per the official race rules winners are awarded to the first person who crosses the finish line (being the winner) All finishers positions are awarded using the order they crossed the finish line thereafter.
Time Trials
Time trial results always use the net time for all results. Participants set off at pre-determined times and the net time is used for the awarding or prizes and results the fastest personal time being the winner.
Why do all events not use the chip time?
As an example, in a 10k event you could have a runner set off last in the race and run the course with the fastest chip time making them the winner, even though thy did not raise their arms and finish as the winner. Could you imagine this scenario? This is why nearly all events use the official gun time for all results.
Category Results
We find that many events award the age based category results using the gun time, however we do find that some events choose to award the age based category results using the chip time.
Conclusion
There is no actual rule stating what events must adhere to when awarding prizes other than the official gun time and finishing order. As a timing company we provide the results that each individual event ask for and many use the general rules and guidance explained above.