Race Day & Logistics

What Is a DNS?

DNS stands for Did Not Start, the result recorded when a registered runner never begins the race. It's different from a DNF, where the runner starts but doesn't finish. Injury, illness, and travel issues are the most common causes.

What does DNS mean in a race?

It stands for Did Not Start. The runner registered and got a bib but never crossed the start line on race day.

Why would a runner DNS a marathon?

The usual reasons are injury, illness, or a training setback close to race day that makes starting unsafe. Travel problems or a last-minute personal emergency can also cause a DNS.

Do you get a refund if you DNS a race?

Almost never in full, most race organizers state entry fees are non-refundable in their terms. Some events offer deferral to next year's race or a partial credit instead.

Does DNS affect your running record or rankings?

No, since you never started, there's no time or split data attached to your name. It simply appears as DNS in the results list instead of a finish time.

Is DNS the same as withdrawing before race day?

It's closely related. Withdrawing usually means telling the organizer in advance, while DNS is the label applied in results when a registered runner doesn't show up to start.

Related terms