Nielson Challenge

Nielson Challenge Race Details

Race Date: September 5, 2026

Location: North Monument Valley Park, W Fontanero Street & Culebra Ave, Colorado Springs, CO

Race URL: Nielson Challenge Registration

Registration Information

Forever Bib: If you have a forever bib, there is no need to register. You are already pre-registered each month.

Race Start Time

Start Time: 8:00 A.M.

Start Line Closure: The start line closes at 8:05 A.M.

Race Format

Distance: This is a 2 mile race held the first Saturday of each month.

Handicap System: You are running against your handicap, which is computed from your previous results for the last two years.

Base Time: The first time you run this event, you'll establish a base time for yourself, which is used to generate a handicap time.

Algorithm: The handicap time is calculated using an algorithm developed by Bob Royse, geared to favor beginning and slower runners. Click here for an explanation of the handicap algorithm.

Winning Criteria

Winner Determination: Once you have an established handicap, you are racing against your handicap time. The person who improves the most from their handicap time is the winner.

Inclusivity: The handicap favors beginning and slower runners putting in quality training time, but it is also suitable for established runners and those looking to gauge their fitness level.

Monthly Course: It's the same 2 mile course each month, providing a consistent basis to check your running fitness month to month.

Awards

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

Shirt Donation: 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.