Gun time
[guhn tahym]
/ɡʌn taɪm/
Noun
The official time recorded from the start of a race to a participant's finish, measured from the moment the starting gun is fired.
Gun time is the official race time measured from the start gun to when a runner crosses the finish line. It differs from chip time, which starts when a runner crosses the start line. Gun time is used for official race results and awards, especially in elite competitions. For example, in large marathons, elite runners' placements are determined by gun time. It matters to runners because it affects race strategy and positioning at the start. While recreational runners focus on chip time for personal records, gun time is crucial for competitive standings.