A TOTALLY FREE & AFFILIATED RUNNING CLUB IN HERTFORDSHIRE
The 5k handicap
The handicap 5k events are used as both a training session but also as an opportunity for club members to push themselves a little harder (if they want to) to see how fast they can complete a 5k. This is a useful training benchmark tool.
How does a handicap run work? In a handicap, each runner is given a target time to complete the 5k in. This time is based on that runners current form. Information from training and recent races will be used to calculate the target. Runners are then put in to a ranking order based on those target times with the slowest runner first. Each runner is then set off in that order with start times based on the handicap time given to each runner. If all runners complete the 5k in the target times given, they will all finish together! The winner of a 5k handicap race is the runner who beats their target time by the greatest margin.
The route
We use an out and back course that has only 72 feet of total elevation, massive pb potential!
The Handicap 5k series
The club competition consists of 6 handicap 5k races (one a month) between April and September. Any member who runs in at least three of the races will be eligible to be included in the overall club standings and will receive a medal. Prizes are awarded to the first 3 finishers after each race.
At the end of the series trophies will be awarded to the overall winner (most improved) and the fastest man and fastest lady based on their average times over the three races that count (if they have run more than three races then the average of the fastest three will count).
Our handicap 5k series for 2025 has begun, the dates are below:
Thursday 17th April, Tuesday 20th May, Thursday 19th June, Tuesday 15th July, Thursday 14th August and Tuesday 9th September
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