Tips for Ensuring Race Timing Accuracy
Accurate race timing is the backbone of any successful race. At Radical Runs, we've developed a comprehensive approach to ensure precise timing results for every participant. Here are the key factors and best practices that make the difference between amateur and professional race timing.
Our Dual-Chip System: Double the Reliability
Why We Use Two Chips Per Bib
At Radical Runs, we place two RFID chips on every single race bib - and there's a critical reason for this redundancy:
Primary chip provides the main timing read
Backup chip ensures no participant is missed
Instant verification when both chips register the same time
Automatic backup if one chip fails or gets damaged
99.9% read accuracy through dual-chip redundancy
This dual-chip approach means that even if a participant's bib gets wet, damaged, or one chip malfunctions, we still capture their accurate finish time. It's this attention to detail that separates professional timing from basic systems.
Multi-Source Backup Timing Systems
Video Recording Technology
We don't rely solely on RFID technology. Our comprehensive backup system includes:
High-definition finish line cameras recording at 60+ fps
Multiple camera angles to capture every finisher
Video placement verification for disputed results
Manual review capabilities for finish order confirmation
Frame-by-frame analysis to determine exact crossing order
Digital Backup Sources
Our multi-layered approach includes:
Primary RFID Ultra 4 system with dual chips
Secondary RFID backup unit running simultaneously
Race Day Mobile Timing for manual timestamp capture
High-definition video recording for placement verification
Manual stopwatch timing by trained staff
Cross-reference analysis comparing all timing sources
Race Day Mobile Timing: The Human Element
One of our most valuable backup systems is Race Day Mobile Timing - a specialized mobile app that allows our timing staff to manually capture timestamps for every runner crossing the finish line:
Manual timestamp capture for each participant as they cross
Real-time digital recording on mobile devices
Comparison tool to cross-reference with RFID chip reads
Gap identification to catch any missed chip reads
Video correlation to verify finish order and placement
This human oversight combined with technology creates the most accurate timing system possible. When we compare our Race Day Mobile timestamps with chip data and video footage, we can identify and correct any discrepancies immediately.
Critical Runner Guidelines for Accurate Timing
Proper Bib Placement is Essential
For our dual-chip system to work perfectly, runners must follow these guidelines:
Place bib on the front of your body - chest or stomach area
Keep bib flat and unobstructed - no rolling or folding
Secure all four corners with safety pins or bib clips
Avoid covering the bib with jackets, shirts, or accessories
Place bib on your back, side, or leg
Fold or roll the bib in any way
Cover the bib with clothing or gear
Use only one or two safety pins
The Watch Rule: Critical for Finish Line Accuracy
Here's something many runners don't know: Never stop your watch directly over your bib when crossing the finish line.
Digital watches emit electromagnetic interference
This interference can block the RFID signal from reaching our timing mats
The result can be a missed read or timing delay
Even a brief signal interruption affects accuracy
Pre-Race Equipment Setup
Professional Calibration Process
Before every race, our team performs:
Dual-chip system testing to verify both chips respond
Signal strength calibration across the entire timing mat
Environmental interference testing for metal or electronic disruption
Race Day Mobile Timing setup for manual timestamp backup
Backup power verification for all systems
Strategic Mat Placement
We position timing mats with precision:
Start line mats capture race beginning
Intermediate split mats for longer races
Finish line mats with maximum coverage width
Backup finish mats 3 feet behind primary mats
During the Race: Real-Time Monitoring
Live System Monitoring
Our staff continuously tracks:
Dual-chip read rates - both chips should register
Video recording status across all cameras
System performance metrics in real-time
Participant flow patterns through timing zones
Battery levels on all equipment
Immediate Problem Resolution
When issues arise:
Instant backup activation from secondary systems
Race Day Mobile Timing deployment for manual timestamp capture
Video review protocols for placement verification
Cross-reference analysis of chip, mobile, and video data
Real-time communication with race directors
Post-Race Verification Process
Advanced Data Validation
Every result undergoes rigorous checking:
Dual-chip comparison - both chips must correlate
Race Day Mobile timestamp analysis comparing manual captures to chip reads
Video placement verification for finish order confirmation
Cross-reference validation between chip data, mobile timing, and video
Split time analysis for course completion verification
Statistical outlier detection for impossible times
Participant self-verification opportunities
Multiple Result Sources
We provide results through:
Immediate posting to Race Day Scoring platform
Live results display at the finish line
Text/email notifications to participants
Printable certificates with official times
Age group standings updated in real-time
Why Our Approach Matters
The Stakes are High
Accurate timing affects:
Age group awards and prize distribution
Personal records and milestone achievements
Boston Marathon qualifying standards
Overall race credibility and future participation
Insurance and liability considerations
Professional Standards
The difference between amateur and professional timing systems:
Single chip per bib
No backup timing methods
Manual result compilation
Limited verification process
Dual chips on every bib
Multiple backup timing sources
Real-time video verification
Comprehensive post-race validation
Runner Education: Spread the Word
Help us help you get accurate times by sharing these tips:
Bib placement matters - front and center, unobstructed
Watch interference is real - keep devices away from your bib at the finish
Trust the system - our dual-chip approach catches what single systems miss
Report issues immediately - we can often resolve timing questions on race day
The Radical Runs Difference
When you choose Radical Runs for your race timing, you're getting more than just basic RFID technology. You're getting a comprehensive system designed with multiple layers of accuracy and backup options, enhanced by innovations like [Smart Race Bib technology](/blog/smart-race-bib-digital-innovation).
Our dual-chip system, combined with video backup and digital redundancy, ensures that every participant gets the accurate time they've worked so hard to achieve. Learn more about [our complete timing system](/timing-system) and [full-service race management](/full-service).