What Does "BQ Minus 5" Mean?
You will see runners say they ran "BQ minus 5" or that they are aiming for "BQ minus 10." It is simple shorthand for buffer.
The meaning
"BQ minus 5" means finishing 5 minutes faster than your qualifying standard, that is, a 5 minute buffer. "BQ minus 10" is a 10 minute buffer. The bigger the minus, the safer you are against the cutoff.
Why it matters
Because the cutoff is expressed the same way, BQ minus language maps directly onto your odds. If the cutoff comes in at 5:15 and you ran BQ minus 8, you are comfortably in. If you ran BQ minus 2, you are likely out. The predicted 2027 cutoff is about 5:15, so aim for BQ minus that, or more.
The predictor turns your finish time into exactly this number and tells you whether it is likely to be enough.
Frequently asked questions
What does BQ minus 5 mean?
Running 5 minutes faster than your Boston qualifying standard, giving a 5 minute buffer under the standard.
How much BQ minus do I need?
Aim to beat the standard by at least the predicted cutoff, about 5:15, and ideally more, to be safe against a fast year.