RC Timer

L-36.com

About this app

RC Timer is a simple GPS-based starting timer for sailboat race committees. It features a high-contrast display optimized for easy viewing in bright daylight, with large, clear timing information designed to be readable on the water.

Enter the scheduled start time and RC Timer automatically calculates and continuously updates the time to start. Or use it like a traditional countdown timer by entering the time to start directly, with start/stop, resync and increment controls. RC Timer provides a clear countdown with spoken announcements, written messages and timed horn signals.

Features include:

• GPS-based timing
• High-contrast display optimized for daylight viewing
• Works in portrait or landscape orientation
• Enter scheduled start time or time to start
• Spoken and written countdown announcements
• Timed horn signals
• Built-in starting sequences
• Custom sound and announcement sequences
• Edit and save your own starting sequences
• Signal flag reference
• No advertising
• No user information collected, stored or transmitted
• No cellular or internet connection required

RC Timer is intended to be easy to use during an actual race start. The main timer display is deliberately simple and easy to read, while additional controls and editing features are available when you need them.

RC Timer does not require a SIM card or an internet connection. An old Android phone can make an excellent dedicated race committee timer—without risking your new $1,000 phone overboard.

Custom starting sequences can combine speech, text and horn signals at any desired times. You can create and save sequences for different starting procedures or modify the supplied examples.

RC Timer uses the phone's GPS only to obtain accurate time. It does not collect, store or transmit your location or other personal information.

RC Timer is free to use.

Ratings and reviews

Update 08/18/2026 - After years and years of using the final version of the original app (2015) I received notice of an 08/15/2026 update. Hesitant to install the update because the old app has served our purpose so well for so many years and don't want to chance losing what we've become accustomed to. Original review(2016) Using LG G2 running Android 5.0.2. Very handy App. Keeps RC on task when occasionally short handed. Thanks for the support and bug fixes. A-1 Stuff!

I really like this app because it allows setting a start time per full gps time of hours, minutes and seconds, which is useful for pursuit style handicap races. Most other similar apps allow setting the start time in hours and minutes. This is the only one I've found that includes sevonds.

Disappointed that it stopped timing during a race. I didn't see when it stopped but probably around 100 minutes. Useful as a race committee timer, not so much as a race timer.

What’s new

RC Timer now works in both portrait and landscape orientation. The display automatically adjusts to the way you hold your phone. Also updated for the latest versions of Android.