A measured approach

Could you become an official course measurer? Find out how…

A Cook-Jones Counter: the main tool of measurement

Have you set a goal of running a specific distance? Do you aim for a PB in target races? If so, you will be aware of the importance of accurate race measurement and may know of the important work the Scottish course measurement team do to ensure that the results of your races are officially recognised.

In 2019, the measurement team certified over 230 courses and helped to ensure that every licensed road race in Scotland last year was officially measured. Measurements are carried out by accredited measurers using a “Cook-Jones” counter attached to a bicycle, cycled along the ‘running line’. This makes sure that the route measured is the shortest possible and that races are held over the distance advertised. Any race that has not been officially measured will not be licensed and performances in these races will not be recognised by Run Britain and Power of 10.

A colleague and I were once invited to measure Cardiff Marathon. We were provided with a police escort to apply rolling road closures, making sure the route stayed traffic-free while we measured. Edinburgh-based measurer Adrian Stott has more than once measured courses around Edinburgh’s Meadows in the early hours of the morning whilst students still made their way home from their night out. It’s amazing what you can see when out measuring!

All measurers in Scotland are volunteers, and most are also runners. If you are looking for a way to get more involved in road running, training as a measurer might be for you. Getting accredited involves completing a free online theory course, and then a practical session with a graded measurer. The online course can be completed in your own time, and the practical can be arranged to suit you. Anyone who is interested in learning more about course measurement should visit the AUKCM website, or contact me with any questions on measurement@scottishathletics.org.uk