Nielson Challenge

Nielson Challenge Overview

IF YOU HAVE A FOREVER BIB THERE IS NO NEED TO REGISTER. YOU ARE ALREADY PRE-REGISTERED EACH MONTH.

Race Details

• Race Date: 2026-10-03
• Location: North Monument Valley Park, W Fontanero Street & Culebra Ave, Colorado Springs, CO
• Start Time: 8:00 A.M.
• Start Line Closure: 8:05 A.M.

Race Format

• Distance: 2 mile race held the first Saturday of each month.
• Handicap-Based Competition: You run against your handicap, calculated from your previous results over the last two years.
• Base Time: The first time you run establishes your base time for handicap calculation.
• Handicap Algorithm: Developed by Bob Royse, it favors beginner and slower runners. Click here for an explanation of the handicap algorithm.

Winning Criteria

Once you have an established handicap, you race against that time. The winner is the participant who improves the most from their handicap time.

Advantages for Runners

• Inclusivity: The race favors beginner and slower runners who may see significant improvements.
• Fitness Tracking: Established runners benefit by gauging their fitness level, running the same 2-mile course each month.
• Consistent Conditions: Similar weather conditions provide a reliable basis for tracking improvement month to month.

Awards

At each monthly race, the person who improves the most over their handicap earns a Nielson shirt.

The shirts are generously donated by Michael Schenk of EON Studios, located at 836 N Institute in Colorado Springs (633-7986). Visit EON Studios for all of your screen printing needs. Michael gets his exercise on a bicycle, while his wife Susan does the running in the family.