RFID for Race Timing

Customizable race bibs to track any running or athletic event

Request a Quote Request a Sample

We’ve created an ultra-low profile RFID Race Timing Tag (wearable on people) for athletic events like marathons, races, triathlons and more. Most other RFID race timing tags use an uncomfortable foam backing that can cause unreliable performance data. Our tag adheres to race bibs and is built for great performance and sensitivity to track runners’ splits and times throughout the race. Each FastTrack RFID tag is customizable with colorful text and logos, have an excellent read distance and the thermal-transfer receptive material can be printed on site. These are highly customizable with “just right” engineering…that’s ID Made Better®.

From The Asset Tracking Blog

February 9, 2021
We Answer Customers’ Top 15 RFID Questions

Explore answers to top RFID questions, from tag selection and lifespan to reading through walls and asset tracking.

Read Blog

May 5, 2021
What Is RFID? A Basic Guide To Radio Frequency Identification

Learn how RFID technology works, including the types of RFID tags (active, passive, and battery assist) and their frequencies, while exploring the efficiency and speed advantages it offers across various applications.

Read Blog

April 6, 2023
Metalcraft Explores Growing RFID Market

As the RFID market grows, industries like retail and pharma benefit from enhanced traceability, inventory management, and security, with Metalcraft driving innovation in RFID technology.

Read Blog

RFID for Race Timing Videos

Inlay Innovation – How an Inlay is Made

Metalcraft introduces its new brand, Inlay Innovation, offering a fully custom 360° approach to RFID construction. Specializing in designing, developing, and manufacturing custom RFID inlays, Metalcraft ensures each component of your RFID tag integrates perfectly, with the flexibility to use any chip type.

Through a deep understanding of RFID technology, Metalcraft creates custom inlays tailored to specific applications, optimizing performance and efficiency. The brand’s services include inlay design, shear testing, temperature exposure testing, contract converting, and prototyping—delivering unique solutions faster than traditional stock designs.

Inlay Innovation – How an Inlay is Made
Defining Metalcraft – ID Made Better
New RFID Race Timing Tag
RFID Race Timing Tags By Metalcraft

FAQs

Race timers use RFID (radio frequency identification) technology for timing events in a variety of sports, including running races, triathlons, cycling races, and more. The RFID timing system consists of several key components:

  1. RFID Tags or Chips – participants are provided with RFID tags or chips, which are small electronic devices that contain a unique identifier associated with each participant. These RFID tags are usually attached to the participants’ bibs, shoelaces, wristbands, or other wearable items.
  2. Antenna and RFID Readers – RFID timing systems include antennas and RFID readers strategically placed at specific points along the race course, such as the start line, finish line, and intermediate checkpoints. The antennas emit radio frequency signals, and when a participant with an RFID tags passes through the antenna’s read zone, the RFID reader captures the unique identifier from the tag.
  3. Timing Software – the captured data is then sent to timing software, which processes the information and records the precise time at which each participant passed each timing point. The timing software is capable of handling large numbers of participants simultaneously.

Race timers use RFID (radio frequency identification) for timing events due to several advantages that this technology offers.

  1. Accuracy and Precision – RFID timing systems provide accurate and precise timing data. The technology allows for reliable capture of participants’ unique identifiers as they pass through timing points, ensuring accurate recordings of start, finish, and split times.
  2. Efficiency – RFID systems significantly improve the efficiency of timing processes. They automate the data collection process, eliminating the need for manual recording of participant times. This reduces the likelihood of errors and speeds up the overall timing workflow.
  3. High Throughput – RFID technology can handle a large number of participants simultaneously. This is particularly important in mass participation events such as marathons, where hundreds or thousands of participants may be passing through timing point within a short time frame.
  4. Real-Time Data – RFID timing systems provide real-time data, allowing race organizers, participants, and spectators to access up-to-the-minute information on participant positions and race progress. This enhances the overall experience for everyone involved.
  5. Non-Intrusive for Participants – RFID tags are typically attached to participants’ bibs, shoes, or other wearable items. This non-intrusive setup allows participants to focus on their performance without being burdened by additional equipment or manual recording processes.
  6. Scalability – RFID timing systems are scalable and can be adapted to events of various sizes and complexities. Whether it’s a small local race or a large international event, RFID technology can scale to meet the specific timing needs.

In summary, race timers choose RFID for timing because it offers a combination of accuracy, efficiency, scalability, and real-time data, ultimately contributing to a smoother and more enjoyable experience for both participants and organizers.