diff --git a/rowers/dataprep.py b/rowers/dataprep.py
index 6158431e..45cfd3d4 100644
--- a/rowers/dataprep.py
+++ b/rowers/dataprep.py
@@ -769,7 +769,11 @@ def save_workout_database(f2, r, dosmooth=True, workouttype='rower',
                 timezone=timezone_str,
                 privacy=privacy)
 
-    w.save()
+    try:
+        w.save()
+    except ValidationError:
+        w.startdatetime = timezone.now()
+        w.save()
 
     isbreakthrough = False
     ishard = False