What is a Chip Time?

Question: What is a Chip Time?

I'm new to running and I've heard some more experienced runners mention their "chip times" in races? What are they talking about?

Answer: Chip time is another way of saying "net time," or the actual amount of time it takes a runner to go from the starting line of a race to the finish line. Many races feature a timing technology in which all participants run with a computer chip attached to their running shoe. When you register for a race, you receive your borrowed chip, programmed with your information, at the same time you get your race bib. The chip usually attaches to your shoelaces, although some are connected to a Velcro strap that goes around your ankle. At the end of the race, someone will be there to collect the chip from you. Many races are also now using race bibs with a timing chip or tag (called a B-Tag) attached to the front or back of the race bib.

As you move across a special mat at the starting line, the chip registers that you've started the race. Then, as you cross the finishing line, the chip registers that you've finished the race. So, in other words, the amount of time that it takes you to reach the starting line (since most people are not right at the front of the race) doesn't count in your overall time. In some cases of very large races, it can take runners at least 20 minutes to reach the starting line. Your chip time is different than your "gun time," which is the amount of time it took you to finish the race from the moment the gun (or horn) went off.

Most large races, especially marathons, now use chip timing technology. As a result, runners at the start can line up where it's appropriate for their pace, instead of trying to push their way to the front. For longer distances, the chip also records splits at various points along the course, such as the half-marathon mark during a marathon. This feature is helpful for your friends and family members who may want to track you online during your race.

Of course, one drawback of timing chip technology (although most runners would never admit it) is that runners can no longer "fudge" their race times by subtracting more time than it actually took for them to cross the starting line. The chip doesn't lie.