The Race to The Future Begins Here
Touted as a “Race to the Future,†the 2008 Clark Freeport International Marathon is a first in more ways than one. On Jan. 13, 2008, for the first time in the country, a marathon is implementing a technology that uses the GPS to track the runners and their progress through the scenic and winding route of the marathon.
“This is the first time this technology is being used in the country,†Rudy Biscocho, of RACE, Inc. says. “The system uses a special chip that is attached on the runners’ shoelaces, allowing the GPS satellite to follow their progress as they make their way along the route. This technology is used in the Boston Marathon and even the Tour De France.†“We are proud that we are introducing this state-of-the-art technology.†Ms. Noemi Garcia of Clark Development Corporation (CDC) adds.
Mr. Biscocho, acquired the AMB ChipX system on his recent visit to Australia. AMB ChipX Timing system is based on a simple concept – each athlete is fitted with a chip (called a transponder) which outputs a signal. As the athlete crosses the start/finish line, the signal is detected and the exact time calculated. This simple concept has been refined and perfected over the last 25 years and is now used by over 13,000 AMB customers worldwide.
The ChipX system can also automatically connect to the internet to provide organizations with 100% automated timing. The system guarantees 100% accuracy regardless of the density of participants arriving at the finish line, assuring the runners of a fair and exact race outcome.
The 2008 Clark Freeport International Marathon is organized by the Clark Development Corporation in partnership with ActivAsia, Inc. Sanctioned by the Philippine Amateur Track and Field Association (PATAFA) and endorsed by the Philippine Sports Commission, the event is expected to bring in runners from all over the country and around Asia, all vying for the biggest cash prizes in marathon the Philippines has ever seen.
Aside from the 42-K run, there are also 10-K and 5-K runs. For inquires, log on to www.clarkmarathon.com or call Thelma Biscocho of RACE at (632) 727-99-87, or call Jay Almario at CDC at (045) 599-32-22, or Agnes Sicat of ActivAsia at (045) 861-4072 Registration forms are available at these offices. The registration fees for local runners are PhP500.00 for the 42-K event and PhP250.00 for both the 5 and 10 K runs.
