DNS: meaning and usage for runners
DNS means Did Not Start, a race result used when a registered runner does not begin the event.
Example
Example: A registered runner who wakes up with a fever and never crosses the start line is listed as DNS.
Why it matters
DNS shows that the result was not a bad race but a race that never started. This keeps training logs and official results honest.
How runners use it
Use DNS when starting would be unsafe or impossible. If the event offers deferral, transfer, or insurance rules, check them before race morning.
Related terms
Related resources
FAQ
What does DNS mean for runners?
DNS means Did Not Start, a race result used when a registered runner does not begin the event.
Should beginner runners know DNS?
Yes. DNS appears in training logs, race instructions, and runner conversations, so knowing the basic meaning helps you act on the information.