Getting ready for your first half marathon (13.1 miles) race? You may have concerns about finishing before the race’s cutoff time. If you’re a slow runner or run/walker, you most likely have nothing to worry about, as half marathons typically have generous cutoff times.
So, try not to be consumed with thoughts of not finishing in time. Focus on all the things that you can control. Follow your half marathon training schedule and think about what you should be doing before the race, your race outfit, and your pre-race nutrition and hydration.
However, if you’re really worried about not beating the half marathon time limit, I’ve got some racing tips and strategies for you.
What’s a Typical Half Marathon Time Limit?
Many half marathons have cutoff times, a time limit by which all participants must have crossed the finish line. For safety and logistical reasons, race officials don’t want race participants on the course after a certain amount of time.
The roads have to be reopened to traffic and the course support — traffic enforcers, medical personnel, water stops, etc. — is only on the course for a certain amount of time. Weather is also a factor during the warmer months. Race officials don’t want people running or walking in the hottest part of the day, so a time limit forces people to stop before it becomes too hot.
Half marathon cutoff times are often more generous than marathon cutoff times, meaning that you can run a slower pace and still finish.
For example, some big half marathons have time limits of 3 hours 30 minutes, which is approximately a 16-minute/mile pace. Some half marathons that are run at the same time as a full marathon are even more generous, with cutoff times of anywhere from four to six hours.
How Strict Are Time Limits?
Many new runners worry about not finishing before the time limit or being one of the last race participants to finish. To determine if you’re in danger of not making a race cutoff time, you can estimate your half marathon finish time, based on one of your shorter race finish times.
If your race time estimate is above the cutoff time, or even a little bit under (since you may be a bit slower than the estimated time), try to find out how strictly the cutoff time is enforced. In the race instructions on their website, read the explanation about the cutoff time in the race rules. Some races have a sweep bus that picks up runners and walkers who are behind the cutoff time pace.
Other races state a cutoff time, but still keep the finish line open beyond the time limit. In those cases, the race website may state that participants can stay on the course. However, the roads will be reopened to traffic and half marathoners won’t have access to course support.
Some half marathons may not provide additional details about the race time limit. If that’s the case, you could talk to other runners or walkers who have done the race. Find out how strict race officials have been in previous years. You could also email the race director and ask how they’ll enforce the time limit. Ask whether there will be a mandatory sweep bus or if participants can stay on the course.
Should I Do a Race If I’m Close to the Time Limit?
If the half marathon is strict and you’re in danger of not finishing before the time limit, don’t sign up for it. You won’t enjoy running or walking in a race with the constant fear of getting kicked off the course. And you may miss out on some of race amenities, like water stops, official finisher photo, certificate, and medal.
You’re better off finding another race with no time limit or one that you know you could comfortably beat. There are plenty of half marathons that are very accommodating to slower runners and walkers.
If you decide to do a race when you’re pushing the time limit, make sure you’re prepared. You’ll want to carry your own fluids as well as a map of the course. Water stops, mile markers, and other course signs may be taken down while you’re still on the course. It’s also a good a idea to carry your phone with you, in case you need to call for assistance or look up directions.
How to Avoid Wasting Time During the Race
Try to avoid making common racing mistakes, such as trying something new on race day or starting out too fast. Focus on doing relaxing activities and easing your pre-race anxiety.
Make sure you’re not wasting time waiting in line for porta-potties. Get to the race start early and get on line for the bathroom. Some half marathoners end up losing time because they were waiting for the bathroom when the race started.
Overhydrating can also lead to frequent porta-potty stops, so don’t take in more fluids than you need. Drink when you’re thirsty and don’t force it if you don’t really need it.
Participating in a big half marathon? Follow these smart strategies for dealing with crowds, especially for the first few miles. For example, don’t stop at the very first table at the water stop, since it will be the most crowded.
If you’re concerned about starting out too fast and having nothing left in the final miles, incorporate walk breaks from the beginning of your race. Race participants who use a run/walk strategy often find that they run a faster overall pace than if they tried to run the entire race.
Also see: What If I Can’t Finish a Race?
