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Manual (Pull Tag) Timing
Computerized, manual timing, as performed by Lee Timing, is a proven system for capturing runner's times and runner's places, then combining the two to generate results. Although reliable for small to medium-sized races, manual timing requires a little more time to compile results, especially if the finish line is not carefully controlled.
Pull tag timing requires one person to record finishing times, and another to record finishing place by bib number. As times are recorded, the pull tags from the runners' race bibs are collected in the order the runners cross the finish line. At the end of the race, the number of times recorded should equal the number of pull tags collected. The first pull tag number is matched with the first recorded time; the second pull tag number is matched with the second recorded time, and so on. Once the two lists are matched, specialized timing software generates the results.
Pull tag
Chip Timing
Chip timing utilizes radio frequency identification (RFID) to automatically record individual runner finish times. Although there are several proprietary brands of chip timing systems in use today, Lee Timing uses the time-proven ChampionChip (now MyLaps) timing system, which has been in use wordwide since the mid 1990's.
Each timing chip is encoded with a unique identification signal and is assigned to each runner before a race, usually by bib number. The timing chip is usually worn on the shoe or on an ankle strap, so the chips pass closely over a series of timing mats.
Each timing chip is encoded with a unique identification signal and is assigned to each runner before a race, usually by bib number. The timing chip is usually worn on the shoe or on an ankle strap, so the chips pass closely over a series of timing mats.
Timing chip
As the chip passes over the mats, the magnetic field created by the mats (antennae) energizes the chip and causes it to send its unique signal which is picked up by the mats and transmitted to the controller box. As each chip has a unique signal which has been assigned to a specific runner for that race, the system can accurately record when each runner crosses the timing mat; specialized software takes this data and compiles it in finished results.
"Net" chip timing uses a second complete chip timing system at the starting line to allow for measuring only the time each runner is actually on the course. This is especially important for larger races where runners at the back of the field can take several minutes to cross the starting line.
"Net" chip timing uses a second complete chip timing system at the starting line to allow for measuring only the time each runner is actually on the course. This is especially important for larger races where runners at the back of the field can take several minutes to cross the starting line.
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Chip timing tends to be more expensive than manual timing because of the cost of the timing chips. On a per runner basis, reusable timing chips are less expensive to use, but they must be collected and returned after the race. Race organizers are encouraged to notify runners in their brochures and waivers that failure to return the chip will result in a lost chip charge, typically around $30. Disposable chips are more expensive on a per runner basis, but can be thrown away after the event. For larger races this can be a big time-saver and free up valuable volunteers for other duties.