Race day excitement is something else, isn’t it? The excitement, the energy, the endless nervous toilet trips. But before we all go charging over the start line, there’s something important we need to talk about -your race day starting pen. Yep, those colour-coded or time-based corrals we sometimes forget to take seriously. I’ve seen a lot of pen-hopping lately, and it’s causing a bit of chaos.
Now, I get it. We all want to have a great race experience, but choosing the right starting position isn’t just about personal preference; it’s about safety, fairness, and making the race smoother for everyone.
What is a starting pen, anyway?
If you’re new to racing, you might be wondering what a starting pen actually is. Most races group runners into ‘pens’ ‘corrals’ or ‘waves’ at the start line based on your estimated finish time. You’ll usually give this predicted time when you sign up, and your race number or email will tell you which pen you’re in. This system helps the event run smoothly, stops congestion, and keeps runners safe by making sure everyone starts at a pace that suits them.
The problem with starting too far forward
One of the biggest issues I’ve noticed recently is runners placing themselves in faster pens than their predicted finish times. And look, I get the temptation. You don’t want to get stuck in a crowd, or maybe you just like the vibe up front – but this can cause more harm than you might think.
I’ve lost count of the times I’ve spent the first few miles weaving around people walking from the get-go – not those taking a breather (we’ve all been there), but folks who clearly intended to walk most of the race and still lined up near the front.
For runners trying to stick to a pace, it creates constant stop-starts, sudden side-steps, and a lot of frustration. More importantly, it’s a safety issue – especially in crowded races. Trips and tumbles happen fast when thousands of people are trying to avoid unexpected obstacles.
And while we’re on the topic, let’s talk about the other side of this problem…
Faster runners, don’t start too far back!
If you’re a speedster, it might seem like no big deal to start further back and overtake your way through. But as a short queen myself, let me tell you – this can be just as dangerous.
I’ve been elbowed, clipped, and nearly taken out by taller runners surging through the pack like it’s an obstacle course. Not ideal. Rushing forward from behind causes disruption, throws off other runners’ rhythm, and again – it’s a safety risk. So wherever you fall on the speed scale, your best start is in the right place.
Not sure which pen to choose?
Your training will usually give you a good idea – apps like Runna are great because they give you a very accurate predicted finish time. For most races, when you sign up, you’ll be asked for your. Most races ask for this when you sign up, and if you’ve overestimated, it’s totally fine to move back on the day. In fact, starting slightly slower can actually help – you won’t get carried away with the fast pace at the start, meaning you can hold your pace longer and finish strong.
A few quick tips to help you line up right:
- Follow the pacers – If your race has pacers, they’re a fab guide. Aiming for a 60-minute 10K? Find that pacer and stick nearby.
- Look for signage – Many events use clear markers for predicted finish times. These aren’t just decoration – use them!
- Be honest with yourself – If you’ve trained for a 2-hour half, jumping in with the 1:30 crew won’t help your race… and it’s not fair on them either.
Speaking from personal experience… (how I face-planted at a 10K)
If you need an example of why this matters, let me take you back to a 10K I was pacing. I’d just set off, trying to keep things steady, when I ended up stuck behind a group of walkers in a line accross the course who’d started nearer the front.
Cue lots of sidestepping and dodging, and then – down I went! Face-first into the tarmac, wearing a massive pacer flag. Not my proudest moment!
I’ve got all the love in the world for walkers, run-walkers, and anyone out there giving it a go – but please start in the right place. It makes the day better (and safer) for everyone.
At the end of the day, we all want the same thing – a positive, fun, and safe race experience. Choosing the right starting pen might seem like a small detail, but it has a big impact.
So next time you’re lining up, take a sec to check where you’re standing. Trust your training, find your pacer, and let’s make every race smoother, safer, and more enjoyable for all of us.
See you on the start line!
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