What is Chip Time?

Chip time (also called net time) is the time measured from when you personally cross the starting line to when you cross the finish line. It's recorded by a timing chip attached to your bib or shoe.

How It Works

1. Timing chip - A small RFID tag on your bib or a disposable tag on your shoe
2. Timing mats - Electronic mats at start, finish, and checkpoints
3. Signal detection - When you cross a mat, your time is recorded

Chip Time vs Gun Time

Example

• Gun goes off: 8:00:00 AM
• You cross start line: 8:03:24 AM
• You cross finish line: 11:33:24 AM
• Gun Time: 3:33:24
• Chip Time: 3:30:00

Why Chip Time Matters

For Personal Records

Your chip time is what you should use for:

• 📈 Tracking your PR (personal record)
• 📊 Comparing performances across races
• 🎯 Evaluating if you hit your goal time

For Qualification

• Boston Marathon qualifications are based on chip time
• Most age group awards use chip time
• Time-based entries for future races use chip time

Types of Timing Chips

Disposable Chips

• Attached to back of bib
• One-time use
• No return needed

Shoe Tags

• Attached to your shoelaces
• Sometimes reusable
• More accurate for foot-over-line timing

Ankle Straps (Triathlons)

• Waterproof
• Works across all three disciplines
• Must be returned after race

Split Times

Chip timing also records split times at various points:

• 5K, 10K, 15K marks
• Half marathon point
• Mile markers (in some races)

These help you analyze your pacing strategy post-race.

What If the Chip Fails?

If your chip doesn't register:

• 📸 Have someone photo your finish with the clock visible
• 🏃 Make sure you crossed all timing mats
• 📧 Contact race officials with your bib number
• ⌚ Your GPS watch data can sometimes help verify

Chip time is the great equalizer. Whether you're in the first corral or the last, your chip time reflects your true racing performance.