If you are unfamiliar with or haven't run in a race that is timed using the ChronoTrack timing system, we would like to tell you what to expect. Running is still done with your feet and you need to get to the finish line as soon as you can. That hasn't changed.

The difference is what can be done with your times. The ChronoTrack D-Tag technology is basically quite simple as well as extremely accurate. Each disposable tag contains a transponder that is energized when a runner crosses a timing point such as the start, split, or finish. The system uses a computer tag which must be tied to runners' shoe laces properly, and records the exact time each runner crosses the starting line as well as the finish line, resulting in a net or "tag" time for each runner. Since your tag is attached to the front of your race number (or bib), when you pick up you bib you get your D-Tag as well. The D-Tag is lighter than other chips and you will forget that the tag is on your shoe.

If you are like me, when I run a race I start my watch when I cross the starting line. That is my elapsed time and it tells me how fast I ran. The official time is somewhat interesting but not as relevant to me--someone who will never win a race or even my age group. That is exactly what the ChronoTrack technology allows us to do for everyone--determine how long it took for each individual to run their race. Makes sense.

The next logical step after obtaining "tag" times is in scoring the race. Capital Running Company believes that awards for the overall winners should be based on "clock" time and all age group awards on "tag" or net time. By scoring age group winners using "tag" times, it makes it more fair for each competitor.

Imagine that two women are in the same age group and possess equal ability. One positions herself behind the starting line generally where her pace dictates. The other woman elbows her way near the front and positions herself ahead of her ability. Using traditional scoring methods, the second runner would win the race, all other factors being equal. The ChronoTrack D-Tag levels the playing field no matter where either lined up to start, permitting true competition based upon ability, training, confidence, etc.

Why score the overall winners using "clock time" and not "tag" time? Imagine a situation where you saw the winner break the tape, and we told you that what you saw was wrong. That just might happen if we scored the overall winners using "tag" time. The overall winners, no matter how many, are the same ones you saw finishing and in the same order.

Another possible use of the ChronoTrack technology is the ability to determine split times. This has been done at the Los Angeles Marathon with 5K split times relayed to the Internet during the race. We hope to have an opportunity to provide split times at future races.

Why tie the D-Tag to your shoe laces? Besides being an easy place to tie things, your foot happens to be fairly close to the ground. That is important when you are crossing a timing point. With other transponder systems the strength of the electro-magnetic field above the road is limited by whatever lies beneath. The ChronoTrack system has been designed to eliminate that interference. To ensure being recorded, just run as you normally do as you cross every timing point. It is not necessary to step on the timing point to be accurately timed. Just run naturally. After you finish head for the water tables - the D-Tag is disposable.

At races we often hear runners say, "I don't need a D-Tag, I'm not that fast," or even refuse to take a tag. Oh yes, you do need it! You are precisely the competitor for whom the tag was made. You may not be racing for an award, but you are racing and participating for many other reasons. You deserve an accurate time no matter what your pace. The ChronoTrack timing system does that best for everyone.

"Where are the chutes at the finish line?" The D-Tag eliminates the need for a lot of the finish structure and many traditional volunteer jobs, including gender separators, chute packers, tag pullers, timers, and spindle runners. The only finish line job needed in a ChronoTrack timed race is a medical spotter. We don't need to yell at you "Stay in order. Keep moving. Tear off your tags." The D-Tag eliminated the need for all that. Now we are free to cheer your performance!

The ChronoTrack technology has permitted major advances in race timing while allowing running to remain simple and pure. Several other new enhancements are being added to production firmware and software. Just run naturally. Running is still done with your feet and you need to get to the finish line. Now, doesn't that sound easy?

For more information on Capital Running Company events, see www.runwashington.com.

For additional information on ChronoTrack race timing systems, see the ChronoTrack Web site.