Handicap Chase Race with Staggered Starts
After timing a 150 m run, students race again with the slowest runners starting first, using a head start calculated in seconds. Everyone has a real chance to win while students work on top speed, all-out effort, and figuring out pace.
How to play
- Mark a 150 m course with cones and a finish line. Make groups of 5 with a recording sheet (2 minutes).
- Each group runs the 150 m while another group times and records each runner on the sheet (6 minutes).
- Three-minute walking recovery: each group calculates every member's head start by subtracting the fastest time from their own.
- Second race by group: the teacher counts seconds out loud and each runner leaves on their number; the fastest runner leaves last (6 minutes).
- The first across the line wins; if several tie at the finish, the math was perfect and the group celebrates (2 minutes).
- Three-minute reflection: who ran faster than in the first race, and why?
Rules
- Only leave when you hear your number; a false start adds a one-second penalty.
- Always run in the same direction and on the right side of the course.
- No one slows down before the finish: run through to 5 m past the line.
- Timers stand outside the course, off to the side of the finish.
Variations
Easier
Cut the distance to 80 m and round head starts to whole seconds.
Standard
150 m with head starts based on each group's first times.
Harder
Race 300 m and let each student choose their own head start, betting on their pace.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: take part in a wheelchair or walking with their own calculated head start, or serve as the starter.
- Hearing impairment: give the start by dropping an arm or holding up a card with the second number.
- Lower fitness: allow the second race at 80 % effort with the same head start.
Learning goals
- Sprint all-out over 150 m.
- Calculate time differences and understand the idea of pace.
- Value personal improvement over comparison with others.
Equipment for a class of 25
- cones: 10
- stopwatch: 5
- recording sheets: 5
Teacher tip
Have a quick reference chart ready so groups can figure head starts without wasting time. All-out sprinting needs a solid warm-up beforehand, so don't skip it.
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