What is a race cutoff time?

A cutoff time is the maximum allowed time to complete the race. If you do not finish within the cutoff, you may be pulled from the course. Common cutoffs: 6 hours for marathons, 3 hours for half marathons.

What happens if I miss the cutoff?

You will typically be asked to stop running and may be transported to the finish area. Your result will be listed as DNF (Did Not Finish). Some races have intermediate cutoffs at specific points along the course.

Do aid station stops count toward the cutoff?

Yes. The cutoff clock starts at the official race start time (gun time), not your chip time. All time spent at aid stations, toilet stops and walking counts toward the cutoff.

How much buffer should I plan for?

Plan for at least 15-30 minutes of buffer over the cutoff time. This accounts for unexpected slowdowns, additional toilet stops, weather changes and the inevitable fatigue in the final kilometres.

RunCalcs

Cutoff Time Calculator — Race Cutoff Pace Check

Check if your pace meets race cutoff time requirements.

Race Distance

Distance measurement

Cutoff Hours

Time in hours

Cutoff Minutes

Time in minutes

Your Pace (Minutes)

Time in minutes

Your Pace (Seconds)

Time in seconds

Total Aid Station Stops

Enter the total aid station stops

How We Calculate This

Cutoff Time Calculation

The calculator compares your estimated finish time against the cutoff:

Your Finish Time = (Pace per km x Race Distance) + Aid Station Stops

Buffer = Cutoff Time - Your Finish Time

Maximum Pace = (Cutoff Time - Stops) / Race Distance

A positive buffer means you finish within the cutoff. A negative buffer means you need to go faster.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates. Always consult a coach or medical professional for personalised training advice.