Creating a Fixed Laps Race
Fixed Laps races in RUFUS Race Manager (RRM) are designed for events where participants must complete a specific number of laps to finish the race. These formats are common in motor sports, running track events, cycle criteriums, obstacle course circuits, and many loop-based competitions where all participants cover the same total distance.
A Fixed Laps race ends when participants reach the configured lap count, and rankings are determined by the fastest total race time.
Fixed Laps Race Overview
In this race format:
The goal is to complete a target number of laps.
The participant’s total time to reach that number determines their result.
Lap counting is controlled by a designated Lap Gate checkpoint.
Intermediate Sector checkpoints can be added to collect split times or sector performance.
RRM manages lap validation, timing, rankings, and finish logic automatically based on the race configuration.
Configuring a Fixed Laps Race
The New TT/Laps Race dialog includes the settings needed to define the lap count, lap structure, and sector checkpoints.
Race Information
Race Name
Enter the name of the race (e.g., 3 Laps, 12-Lap Circuit, 10-Lap Run).
Sport Type
Select the discipline appropriate for the event.
Lap Length (meters)
Specify the length of a single lap. This value is used to calculate pacing, speed, and distance-based statistics.
Race Objective
Select TARGET LAPS as the race type. This enables the Fixed Laps configuration panel.
Target Laps
Enter the total number of laps participants must complete.
Examples:
3 laps on a 2.5 km circuit
12 laps on a 400m track
6 laps on a mountain-bike trail loop
Optional: Checkered Flag Display
Show checkered flag when the winner finishes target laps When enabled, the race interface displays a checkered flag icon once the first participant completes the required number of laps. When the first one finishes, everyone finish the current lap only.
Adding Sectors and Checkpoints
Fixed Laps races use:
A single Lap Gate → Required for counting laps
Optional Sector checkpoints → Used for split times and intermediate monitoring
Adding a Checkpoint
Use the Pick a checkpoint and role… dropdown to assign a role to any existing event checkpoint.
Available roles:
SECTOR
Captures intermediate passings but does not close a lap.
LAP_GATE
Defines the point where each lap is completed. A passing at the Lap Gate increments a participant’s lap count.
Each checkpoint is listed in the grid with:
Checkpoint Name
Type (Sector or Lap Gate)
Sector Number
Closes Lap indicator (displayed only for Lap Gate)
The Lap Gate must always be the final sector in the sequence.
Saving the Race
Once all fields and checkpoints are configured, click Save to add the Fixed Laps race to the event.
From this point, you can:
Assign participants to the race
Monitor race progress via the Race Dashboard View or the Checkpoints / Event Control View
View per-participant lap performance in the Edit Participant View
Generate rankings based on total race time after completing the target laps
All lap timing logic is handled automatically by RRM as passings are processed.
Conclusion
Fixed Laps races in RRM provide a structured and accurate framework for competitions where all participants must complete the same number of laps. With simple lap setup, optional sector checkpoints, and automated timing logic, organizers can configure and manage loop-based events with confidence.
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