PCR Timing is well-known throughout the running community as the premier race timing service in the area. Our years of experience, commitment to excellence and attention to details ensures a stress-free race and accurate results.

How PCR was born

PCR Timing is owned and operated by Paul Richards of Rochester, NY. Paul has been a runner since 1985 and enjoyed the scene so much that he began timing races in 1986. Seven years later, PCR Timing Service was officially born.

Early on, PCR employed the use of Chronomix timers and a finish line clock. However, it quickly became apparent that running had evolved into a much more serious event and the use of computerized race results was necessary in order to tabulate the results in an manner that was both timely and accurate.

For the past decade we have worked closely with runners and race directors to tailor our systems to the evolving needs of the running community. We took timing to the next level in 2004 when we introduced the DAG system at the Jingle Bell Race in December, 2004. This revolutionary new timing system ensures that PCR will continue to remain at the forefront of quality and accuracy for all your race timing needs.

What can PCR do for you?

PCR utilitzes state-of-the-art software and timing devices to provide our runners with detailed, accurate results immediately following the race. PCR uses the DAG System and Flying Feet Time Machine equipment for optimal accuracy. In addition, large double-sided display clocks are used at key locations and at the finish line, providing runners with an easy-to-read progress gauge. Our specialized road-race capable software is on the scene to acquire and analyze all race data. PCR can handle your race, no matter how large or small. Triathlons, rollerblading, running and cycling are all part of our specialty.

We are committed to serving the running community by providing the race director with a service and system designed to fit his or her needs. PCR is willing to do whatever it takes to make this race work for you! We will gladly attend committee meetings in order to showcase our services and instruct committee members on the race process.

Have a question? Need some advice on how to improve the turnout at your race? Would you like assistance in planning your event? Paul Richards and his team of experts are always here to consult with you.

The PCR Advantage

• When you use our Time Machine or DAG System, we provide the double-sided finsh line clock at no extra charge.
• Start Gate is available, which ensures a completely accurate start time for each runner. A special antenna at the starting line records a runner's actual starting time, regardless of where they are in the pack.
• Race consulting and assistance in setting up, promoting and managing the event.
• Free advertising for your race on our web site.
• Our professional staff can design and distribute event flyers on your behalf in order to promote your event.
• Hard copies of the race results will be made available at the race site immediately following the race.
• Race results will be forwarded to the local newspaper.
• All results will be posted on our web site directly after the race.
• High-resolution photography services available with on-site print-on-demand (must be arranged prior to race).
• We can custom-design T-Shirts for your event with your choice of colors, styles and custom graphics.

Our 3 Timing Systems

DAG System: This is ourstate-of-the-art race timing system, and has been proven time and again for the past four years. The DAG System is widely used in Europe and is the first disposable chip system to be used in the United States. We were only the second US timing company to hop on board, and already it is revolutionizing the way races are timed.

Here's how it works: the chip is attached to the back of the runner’s bib and the time is recorded automatically by the computer when the runner crosses under an antenna at the finish line. With this system, all results are 100% computerized, automating everything and eliminating any chance of missed data. With the DAG System, up-to-the-minute results can be provided while the race is in progress.

In addition, "Badgers" can be used as an effective backup system to double-check finish times. A "Badger" is a racquet shaped paddle that is used in the finish line chute. The nice feature about the DAG system is simply the fact that the bib, with the chip attached, can be thrown away after each event. Therefore, we do not need to burden the runners with chip recovery upon completion of the race. In addition, no mats are required at the finish line, which means this system can be used not just for road races, but for rollerblading events and bicycle races as well!

If you want the ultimate in speed and accuracy or have a race with many runners, the DAG System is without a doubt the way to go.

Races timed with our flagship DAG system are indicated by a red DAG logo on our web site.

Time Machine/Barcode System: This system provides computerized race results.  Barcodes are attached to the pull-tag portion of the runner’s bib. This barcode lists the runners name, age, sex, and division. The pull-tags are removed when the runner crosses the finish line and are placed on hooks which are scanned. At the same time, a Time Machine is used to record the bib numbers for select timing purposes. The results are printed while the race is in progress. While not as automated as the DAG system, the Barcode System is still very accurate and ideal for small to medium-sized races.

Chronomix Timing: There are many races that are in the "start up" phase and will have a small turnout in the initial stages. A Chronomix timer is not a bad idea for this type of event. This device prints out a tape with the runner’s bib number and overall time. The tape is then removed and given to the finish line team as they must record the time on the respective pull-tag which has been color coded to differentiate the various age brackets.

Though this is a manual timing system, our team members have the experience necessary to maintain accurate results. Because this system is not computerized, it does require more time to compile the race results.