How We Set Course Cut-Offs at Whaka100

Every year we receive questions about course cut-offs for the 100km. We understand why. No one wants to feel like they were stopped unfairly, especially after months of preparation.  So here’s how we approach it.

It’s Not a Flat Average Speed
Cut-offs at Whaka100 are not calculated using a simple average pace across the distance. The course isn’t flat, and rider pace isn’t linear. The event includes sustained climbing, technical singletrack, and faster sections where riders can recover time. Because of this, pace naturally changes throughout the day. Riders are typically slower through key climbing sectors and may regain time in faster terrain later in the race. If we applied a single “km per hour” rule across the whole course, it would not reflect the real demands of the terrain.

We Use Course Profile and Real Rider Data
Each year we analyse historical rider split times at multiple checkpoints across all categories. This allows us to understand how the field naturally progresses through the course. We look at:

• Arrival time distributions at each checkpoint
• How pace shifts in early, mid and late race sectors
• How fatigue impacts riders in the second half of the course
• ​What percentage of riders pass each checkpoint within certain time windows

This percentile based modelling helps us identify where progression becomes unrealistic within the maximum allowable time. Cut-offs are therefore placed at checkpoints where continuing beyond that point would make it highly unlikely to finish within the 11-hour race limit.

Safety and Logistics Matter Too
Whaka100 is a large-scale event with sweep riders, medical teams, volunteers, and course control spread across a significant area. Cut-offs ensure:

• Riders are not finishing in darkness
• Sweep teams can clear the course safely
• Medical coverage remains effective
• ​The event operates responsibly for all participants

The 11-hour race limit applies from each rider’s individual start time, and checkpoint cut-offs are aligned to that limit, the final wave start time, and daylight considerations.

Fair, Consistent, and Data-Informed
Our goal is to apply cut-offs consistently and fairly. They are not arbitrary and they are not reactive. They are informed by terrain, historical rider behaviour, and operational safety requirements. We know being withdrawn is disappointing. Our priority is ensuring every rider has the best possible chance to complete the event safely, while maintaining the integrity and sustainability of the race.

What Does 11 Hours Actually Mean on This Course?
To finish 104 km within the 11-hour allowable time, a rider must average approximately:

• 9.5 km/h across the entire event

That number alone can be misleading. Riders do not travel at a steady 9.5 km/h from start to finish. The course includes sustained climbing, technical singletrack, and faster sectors where time can be regained. A realistic pacing pattern might look more like:

• Slower climbing sectors
• Steady technical singletrack
• Faster gravel or descending sections
• Brief stops at aid stations

What matters is overall progression across the course, not one isolated sector. For example, a rider who is slightly behind the “average pace” at 40 km can still be on track if the terrain ahead allows for stronger progression. Cut-offs are therefore positioned at key checkpoints where data shows that completing the remaining distance within the allowable time becomes unlikely. This is why cut-offs are not evenly spaced by distance and are not calculated using a flat km-per-hour rule.

What Happens If You Miss a Cut-Off?
Being stopped at a checkpoint is disappointing. We understand that. No rider wants their day to end early.

When a rider is withdrawn from the course, they are not left trackside. We have a dedicated rider welfare process in place.

• Riders are transported safely back to the venue by event staff
• Support teams are positioned at cut-off points
• Food and hydration are available
• Medical support remains accessible if required

Our team’s role is not simply to enforce time limits. It is to look after riders. Throughout the day, we also redeploy bike patrol and support riders to check on participants who are approaching cut-off thresholds. These team members ride alongside competitors, assess wellbeing, and provide guidance on pacing and progression where possible.

Our bike patrol teams carry additional nutrition and can assist with basic mechanical support to help riders stay moving safely. If a rider is close to a checkpoint cut-off, our team will communicate clearly about the required pace and the terrain ahead so riders can make informed decisions about their day. Our priority is always rider safety and care, whether someone finishes within 6 hours or is withdrawn at a checkpoint.

A Note on Other Distances
While this article focuses on the 100km event, the same principles apply to the 50km and 100 Mile distances. Each distance has its own allowable time and checkpoint structure, but all cut-offs are developed using the same approach.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was I stopped when I still felt strong?

​Feeling strong and being on track to finish within the allowable time are not always the same thing. Cut-offs are based on whether a rider can realistically complete the remaining distance within 11 hours, factoring in the terrain still to come.

Why don’t you just let everyone continue?

​We operate within daylight, safety, medical coverage, and sweep logistics constraints. Allowing riders to continue beyond realistic time thresholds can compromise safety and event operations.

Why don’t you base cut-offs on average speed?

​Because average speed does not reflect the reality of this course. The terrain causes natural fluctuations in pace. We use historical checkpoint data and course profile analysis to set cut-offs at meaningful progression points.

Are cut-offs different for different age groups?

​All riders compete within the same maximum allowable time. However, cut-offs are informed by historical data across age categories to ensure they are realistic and fair.

Can cut-offs change on race day?

Yes. In adverse weather or unexpected course conditions, additional safety-based cut-offs may be enforced to protect riders and staff.