PrimeTime is one of the only timing providers in the world who can provide real-time athlete tracking services. Using an array of antennas around the facility we can triangulate an athlete’s location using a lightweight transponder attached to the back of the bib number, or a specialized baton for relay races. This data can be used to gauge athletes speed, distance into the race, split times and much more.
In the above videoclip you can see the Ed Murphey Classic live stream where 7 of 9 cameras were unmanned and automatically followed the action based on their location provided by the tracking system. We use the data to provide a real time leaderboard, split times and control the lap counter for broadcast graphics and in venue display boards. During the 2020 indoor season we used this technology at the New Balance Indoor Grand Prix, Millrose Games, Iowa State Classic and Big 12 Championships.
This technology is a game changer in how we can provide data to broadcasts, spectators and coaches. Allowing us to gather split times in places never before possible, the data from the system can be a great tool for breaking down race performances. We typically collect the following split points, but can assign any split at the clients request:
Distance races (800m+) – 100m Splits
Mile Races – 100m Splits & ¼ Mile Splits
Sprint Races (200m-400m) – 50m Splits
Sprint Races (Under 200m) – 10m Splits
Relay Races – Every Leg, for instance 100m splits for a 4x100m
The tracking system provides 40 locates per second per athlete, providing thousands of data points throughout the race. This data is processed and can be used to provide real time leaderboards, split times, speed heat maps and so much more.
The data from A.T.L.A.S. can be used to drive graphics on the videoboard, broadcast and live results. Allowing specators access to real time distance from the leader and speeds from the race's competitiors.
The tracking tag is placed on the bib number in a pouch to provide the most accurate timing locates. Weighing less than 10 grams, the tag is very standard size compared the other systems being used at international events. Relays have specialized batons with tags built in.
The system uses a "master anchor" that can wirelessly transmit and recieve data from the other anchors around the track. This data is this sent to the processing controllers in the timing both.
Anchors are mounted around the track and data from the anchors are then used to triangulate the athlete's position on the track.
With an array of hardware anchors can be mounted almost anywhere.