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ChampionChip Race Timing by Sportstats was used for the first time in 1999!
What is a ChampionChip?
The ChampionChip is a small plastic
disk containing a miniature transponder. For running races, the ChampionChip
is often just attached to the runner's shoelace with the long end pointing
down. To attach the chip, simply untie one shoe lace to the middle
portion of the shoe and pass the lace in the small holes of the chip.
What are the advantages of using the ChampionChip? 
Athletes in the Marathon will receive
a Gun Time and a Real Time on the Results. A set of mats will be
placed at the start line and will collect everone's start time. Your
Real time (final time minus time it took to cross the start) will be posted
on the results and can be used has a qualifying time for the Boston Marathon.
Take note that the Gun Time is used for awards purposes. A set of
mats will also be placed at another location on the course to eliminate
any cheating. All athletes not crossing that set of mats will be
subject to disqualification.
How does this system work? The basis for the ChampionChip timing system is the high-frequency-identification system (TIRIS) from Texas Instruments. This is the same technology that is also used for security-locks in cars, admission control in buildings, and automated toll lanes on expressways. For race timing, special antennas are cast in thin tartan mats and the mats are placed at the finish line and other timing locations. Each time a ChampionChip comes within the detection range of the antennas, the ChampionChip activates and sends its unique identification number to the reading antennas in the mats. The data is then stored with the corresponding time in a computer. A ChampionChip system with a 4-meter wide mat can score more than 1,500 athletes per minute without missing anyone! What makes the ChampionChip work? Each ChampionChip contains a miniature transponder with its own unique seven-character identification code. The transponder is encased with an energizing coil in a waterproof capsule. The transponder is passive until moving into the magnetic field generated by the ChampionChip antenna mats. The magnetic field activates the ChampionChip's energy coil, producing an electric current that energizes the transponder. The transponder then transmits its unique identification code to the reading antennas located in the same mats. There are no batteries in the ChampionChip - it uses a few simple laws of physics to seemingly pull its energy out of the air. Where has the ChampionChip system
been used? Since it's first commercial use at the 1994 Berlin Marathon, ChampionChip systems have timed thousands of events around the world including last year's National Capital Marathon in Ottawa, Boston Marathon for the last 4 years, Ironman Triathlon World Championship, Trisport Triathlon Series in Ontario and 2,500 other events worldwide. Where do I get my ChampionChip? You will be issued your ChampionChip as part of the registration procedure Can I purchase my own ChampionChip? Yes, you can purchase your very own ChampionChip from our race timers, Sportstats by visiting their web site. You will save $2-$3 at each event as a Chip owner. When you purchase a ChampionChip, its unique identification number will be entered into the international database of ChampionChip owners, allowing you to use it anywhere in the world the ChampionChip system is used. Once purchased, your ChampionChip is good for a lifetime! I already own a ChampionChip. Can
I use mine during the race? Yes. Please affix your chip label and code on the race entry form or notify the ChampionChip representatives at registration. They will input your ChampionChip identification number into the Canadian International Marathon database. Deduct $2.00 if you use your own chip. What do I do with the ChampionChip
on race day?
Just follow the simple instructions in your race packet. Simply attach the chip to your shoelaces with the long end pointing down. To attach the chip, simply untie one shoe lace to the middle portion of the shoe and pass the lace in the small holes of the chip. (see diagram above) What happens if I don't wear my
ChampionChip on race day? Only athletes wearing their ChampionChip will be timed. What do I do with the ChampionChip
after the race? All ChampionChips will be collected at the finish of the race. If you drop out of the race for any reason, it is your responsibility to return the ChampionChip to the ChampionChip collection tent near the finish line. Athletes who do not return their ChampionChip will be disqualified from the race and billed for the replacement cost of the ChampionChip ($40 CDN). I still have questions about the
ChampionChip or I would like to buy one? E-mail Sportstats at: sportstats@cyberus.ca or visit the Sportstats web site at: http://www.sportstats.on.ca |