Sport and timing
Parkrun and small events without chips: how community runs are timed
· 5 min read
In short
- Parkrun began in London’s Bushy Park in 2004 and is a free weekly 5-kilometer run staffed by volunteers.
- Volunteers record the times with stopwatches or a mobile app, numbered finish tokens determine the order, and each runner is identified by a personal barcode.
- This model works for community runs, but as the number of runners grows, matching times, finishing positions, and barcodes becomes more demanding.
- An app or RFID chips are the natural next step for clubs and organizers that want to grow.
Not every event needs chips and timing mats. Parkrun, one of the world’s largest organized running communities, shows that a well-organized volunteer process can handle large numbers too.
How parkrun began
Parkrun began in October 2004 in London’s Bushy Park as a 5-kilometer run with 13 participants. It was founded by Paul Sinton-Hewitt. It is free, takes place regularly once a week, and is organized by volunteers.
Stopwatches, tokens, and barcodes
Volunteers record times with stopwatches or a mobile app. After finishing, each runner receives a token showing their finishing position, and their personal barcode is scanned together with the token. The system then matches the runner with their position and time. It is an inexpensive and scalable process that requires considerable discipline from volunteers.
The limits of this approach
As the number of runners grows and demand increases for split times, categories, or live results, matching times, positions, and barcodes becomes more demanding. Errors occur when the data is combined. You can find an overview of typical mistakes in The most common race timing mistakes.
The next step: an app
The first step is an app in which the timekeeper records each finisher with a tap or scans QR codes. The process is similar, but results go online as soon as the app synchronizes. The next step for larger fields is NFC or RFID chips; learn more in RFID, NFC, QR, or manual timing.
When a small system is enough
For up to a few dozen runners, an app, one or two timekeepers, and a backup procedure are enough. See How much does race timing cost? for a cost comparison.
For clubs and communities
TAQIO was also created for community runs and clubs. It is free for up to 5 participants per event, so even the smallest group can try it. As you grow, add QR, NFC, or RFID.
Frequently asked questions
How is a parkrun timed?
Volunteers record times with stopwatches or a mobile app. At the finish, runners receive tokens showing their finishing position, and each runner’s personal barcode is scanned together with the token. The results are then matched.
When did parkrun begin?
The first parkrun took place in October 2004 in London’s Bushy Park with 13 runners. It was founded by Paul Sinton-Hewitt.
When is it worth switching from paper to an app?
When the number of runners grows, when you need split times, or when recording positions and numbers takes longer than the run itself. An app shortens the recording process and reduces errors.
Does a small race need chips?
Not necessarily. For a few dozen runners, an app using taps or QR codes is enough. Chips help with hundreds of participants and crowded finishes.