KaleRunning Announce ChronoTrack Timing System Acquisition

Exciting times ahead for local Race Management & Timing Company Kale Running as they announce the acquisition of the ChronoTrack Timing System.

Kale Running are one of 20 leading timers in the United States and the only timing company in Virginia to get on board with the innovative system.

One of the many goals of the ChronoTrack system is to simplify the timing process for athletes. At the heart of the system is a disposable tag that eliminates the need for several organizational choke points which hopefully will mean more time for athletes to focus on their race and less time waiting in lines. Shorter lines before the race and no line to return your tag/chip after the race definitely sound good to me!

ChronoTrack was used to time the Los Angeles Marathon in March 2008 and the Cleveland Marathon in May 2008. During the Cleveland Marathon there was heavy rainfall and exceptionally high winds throughout the race.

The results from the these races prove that the system is a professional, all weather timing system ready for the rigors of timing races in the 21st Century.

said David Simms, President SAI Timing.

So, how does it work?

The disposable D-tag is easy to attach your shoe and far lighter and less intrusive than other timing tags and chips. Apparently, once the D-tag is attached to your shoe, you’ll quickly forget it’s even there! Official instructions for attaching the D-Tag to your shoe are available here.

What are the benefits to the athlete?

• No pre-race check-in
• Tag is disposable
• Easier to attach to shoe
• Lighter, less intrusive tag
• Accurate Time
• No Fees for lost or unreturned tags
• No post-race tag return

ChronoTrack have also put together a useful list of frequently asked questions:

What happens if the D-tag gets wet?
The tag is completely weatherproof and will work regardless of rain, heat, storms, humidity or other inclement conditions.

How do I make sure I have the right tag?
Each tag will be clearly marked with the bib number of the participant to whom the tag is assigned. Because the timing tags are clearly marked with the runner’s bib number, there is no need for “chip check” or “tag check” at packet pickup. The purpose of traditional chip check was to ensure that the chip given to the runner was the correct chip. Because the tags are already labeled with the runner’s bib number, there is no need to check that the tag is correctly assigned.

How do I make sure that my tag works?
Each D-tag is checked and double-checked for functionality before they are distributed to the athlete. The tag is always “on” and does not need to be activated. There will be no “tag check” or “chip check” at the EXPO.

I already own another timing chip; can I use it with the ChronoTrack system?
No. Using the disposable D-tag assigned and given to you before the race is the only method to correctly track your times. Other tags and chips are not compatible with the ChronoTrack system.

What is tag time and how is it different from gun time?
Tag time (Chip time) is recorded by an electronic tag that is attached to a runner’s shoe. Your tag records the time at which you cross the start line, the finish line and several split times in between. Tag time is often shorter than gun time because tag time begins when a runner crosses the start line while gun time starts when the gun is fired; many runners don’t cross the start line until several minutes after their official gun time has begun.

How accurate is tag time?
Tag time is the most accurate form of marathon timing available because it measures the exact time between a runner crossing the start line and the finish line. Tag time also records several important splits, providing an accurate record of a runner’s pace.

Can I leave the D-tag on my bib?
No. For optimal performance, the D-tag must be attached to the shoe in the proper manner. For instructions on properly using the D-tag please click here.

Can I flatten and tuck the whole D-tag in my laces to make sure it stays?
No. This can cause damage to the D-tag and also lowers the performance of the D-tag. For optimal erformance, the D-tag must be attached to the shoe in the proper manner. For instructions on properly using the D-tag please click here.

Can I create a hole in the D-tag and tie it on?
No. Puncturing or cutting the D-tag can damage the tag. For optimal performance, the D-tag must be attached to the shoe in the proper manner.

Are you sure the D-tag will stay adhered throughout the race?
Yes! The D-tag has a special adhesive to ensure its durability. Alterations to the D-tag or how it is attached to the shoe are far more likely to cause additional problems that could have easily been avoided.

What if I don’t have laces?
The D-tag can also be used by attaching it to your ankle with a Velcro strap. The tag should still be formed to make a “D” shape and then attached with the Velcro.

From an event organizer’s perspective the Chronotrack system allows them to focus their energy elsewhere, not only in the weeks leading up to an event but also on race day. An obvious benefit is that event organizers can now utilize volunteers where they are needed instead of focusing on the demands of a complex timing system. The ChronoTrack system is not only easier, but it is also more cost effective, with the tag cost being significantly reduced to the point where they can be disposed of after a race without disrupting the quality and accuracy necessary for a timing system.

What are the benefits for Kale Running and other event organizers?

• Tag is disposable
• Costs are lower
• Easier to distribute pre-race
• Eliminates post-race bottlenecks
• Frees up volunteers to help in other key areas

Kale Running, who incidentally are also the only timing company in Virginia to utilize the well-known ChampionChip system, are naturally very excited about the state-of-the-art timing system, which will be used at this year’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon in Virginia Beach on Labor Day weekend. Kale have said they hope to put on an introductory low key race with the system some time in August, both as a dry run for themselves and also to benefit some of the local Rock ‘n’ Roll runners who might like to see how it all works. Keep an eye on their web site for further details.

Feel free to email Team Kale if you have any questions regarding ChronoTrack.

Exciting times for runners in Virginia!