Large Race Bibs

Large Race Bibs seem to be more the exception than the rule any more. But two of my most recent races used rather large race Bibs: Tar Heel Ten Miler and the Capital City Classic 10k.

So why did they use such large race Bibs? The answer can be found in the timing system used by these races. Each race used the race chip which is housed in a pouch on the back side of the Bib. After the race, they scan your Bib as you cross the finish line and then reach into the pouch and pull out the chip.

From a timing perspective, the chip seems to work just as well as any other chip system.

For the Capital City Classic 10k, the race included your name on the race bib which I found to be a nice touch. Your number was actually on the bib as well but was much smaller and located in the right hand corner.

Hopefully, no one takes this as complaining but I do wish they would really use smaller Bibs.

Because these particular Bibs are quite large and you cannot fold them due to the chip being behind the number, you basically have to pin the number to your shirt as is. There is no folding and wearing the Bib on your shorts. Or, I guess you could pin the number to your chest. But then, ouch, this option would certainly hurt. And the blood loss could affect your performance. LOL

On a hot day, the Bib acts like a wind shield and prevents any air from circulating across your chest. Saturday morning by 4 miles I was overheating badly and behind my Bib my race singlet was soaked. I so wanted to just pull off the Bib.

 
 

Just some random thoughts from the Cool Down Runner