RFID races at Seattle Rock ‘N’ Roll Marathon

Filed in archive Sports on July 21, 2009

RFID technology was put test at the Seattle Rock 'N' Roll Marathon. Every runner wore a ChronoTrack D-tag which included an Impinj RFID chip. These weather resistant tags are more dependable than other race technologies and were used for tracking start, split and finish times. Everyone's data was read and not just once but multiple times. It enabled data to be collected not just at the start or finish but also midway through the race in order to root out any chances of cheating. Disposable tags were used which enabled race organizers to match bib number to the shoe tag rather than having to input data from old tags.

It seems RFID technology has started to become a common feature at races being held across the world and it not only makes the races fun and exciting but also enables the deserving winner to be awarded for his or her efforts.