Auto-split benefits

When auto-split mode is enabled in RaceSplitter, each time that a given bib number is timed, the app will add an additional split (lap) on the race automatically. This ability to “auto-split” is a key benefit of RaceSplitter for coaches of sports like nordic skiing, where the race course consists of multiple laps.

Auto-split risks

Imagine a trail race with 300 competitors. At some point, racer 123 comes across the finish line and the timer accidentally mistypes the bib, recording an entry for bib number 132. Half an hour later, the real racer 132 comes across the line, and the timer records an entry for 132. Since this is the second time the app has recorded bib 132, it assumes we have a multi-lap race and creates a second split on the race.

When the last racer crosses the line, the RaceSplitter clock is stopped. The race organizer looks at the result, and is surprised to see only one finisher—racer 132—and all other participants listed as DNF, Did Not Finish). How did this happen? Because RaceSplitter only timed one person in Lap 2, it has to assume that nobody else finished the race!

Disabling auto-split mode

For most races, it’s beneficial to disable auto-split mode in order to prevent erroneous splits from being created on the race when bib numbers are accidentally timed twice.

When auto-split mode is disabled, it’s still possible to time a bib number multiple times. When this happens, however, RaceSplitter will assign subsequent timings of a given bib to a five-digit number, in which the entered bib can be identified by the last digits. For example, let’s imagine racer Bob Smith with bib number 312 is timed three times. Here’s what RaceSplitter will record:

1. 312 → Bob Smtih
2. 10312 → Unnamed Racer
3. 20312 → Unnamed Racer

After the race, the organizer still has to identify these entries, and correct the bib numbers, but at least he doesn‘t face the potentially confusing situation of multiple (unintentional) splits.

Auto-split mode is device—not race—specific

Disabling auto-split mode doesn’t prevent the race from having multiple splits! It just disallows a given device to time multiple splits. So if a trail running organizer has three people timing the race at different locations, all with auto-split mode disabled, each will be able to time a single split.

When the results are published to RaceSplitter.com, however, the website will automatically correctly create additional splits on the race.

Beyond the basics

After you've read the Getting Started Tutorial, dive deeper into more advanced topics.