For Organisers

Organiser FAQs

What equipment do we need to provide for chip timing?

None — our team brings all the necessary timing hardware, including timing mats, decoders, and backup systems. We just need access to a sterile area at the start and finish lines for setup.

What timing chips do you offer?

We provide both UHF Bib tag and reusable shoe tag options and we can recommend the system that will best suit your event. Shoe chips are the most cost-effective option for events and these are collected at the end of each event. Bib chips are the more common option for simplicity and speed at registration.

How are the timing chips distributed to runners?

Our team can either arrange for the race packs to be pre-prepared in alphabetical order in envelopes for collection on the day or we can provide them to your event for you to create your own system. Alternatively, we can arrange for postage of race packs to entrants.

How accurate is chip timing?

Our RFID technology uses the market leading equipment and is highly accurate, typically within a few tenths of a second. Each runner’s time is automatically recorded at multiple points on the course, ensuring reliable results even in large crowds.

Can we get live results during the race?

Yes! We can provide live result feeds that update as participants cross timing points, giving you instant access to leaderboards, category results, and team standings.

What happens if a runner forgets or loses their chip?

We have backup systems in place and experienced staff on site to handle any issues quickly. Replacement chips can be issued on race day, and manual results can be added if needed.

How soon after the race are results available?

Preliminary results are usually ready within minutes of the finish, with full verified results published shortly after. We can also provide links to upload directly to your website or results platform.

Can chip timing handle split points or multiple distances?

Absolutely. We can set up timing points anywhere on the course — ideal for multi-lap events, splits, or combined distances.

How far in advance should we book chip timing?

We recommend booking as early as possible, especially during peak running season (spring and autumn). This ensures we can plan logistics, equipment, and data setup smoothly.

Testimonials

There are few suppliers in the UK that can offer the ‘one-stop-shop’ for race organisers. Sportsystems do this, and consistently and reliably deliver.

‍

We've been using them for over ten years, and we feel that they have helped to create our success; our entries have increased three-fold. I would not hesitate to recommend their services to a Race Director."

Tim Fowler

Hampshire Hoppit

Sport Systems' professionalism, speed, and accuracy are second to none. We highly recommend them to any event organizer looking for a reliable, top-notch timing partner.

‍

We couldn't be happier with their service, both in the run-up to the race for registrations and data management, on race day, and after the event."

Fiona Baker

Race Director, Skye Events

Sport Systems have provided me as the Race Director all the support I need. I don’t have to worry on race day as the timing and results process is all dealt with by their race day team and we have results ready for the presentation.

‍

For me though, it’s the support they provide in the background in the weeks and months before the race, dealing with email queries and ensuring the race packs with numbers are sent out well in advance, which is the biggest help."

James Ridger

Paddock Wood Half Marathon

Sports Systems expertise is nothing short of 5*. Hailsham Community Run has grown in confidence and in numbers of participation as a direct result of the technical support and advice received from their team working up to the event.

‍

They deliver the technical aspects. No Fuss No Drama. Just great seamless hard work. As our chosen provider I look forward to our 2026 Event."

Mary Laxton

Project Lead, Hailsham Community Run

We have worked with Sports Systems for a number of years and they have been an experienced and trusted partner for many a race. We have used the team to support our relay events which have been a great success and they were helpful in giving input on ideas as to how we would make this work when we set up the first one.

‍

The team are super helpful and responsive and make our life as overall organisers and race directors much easier knowing we are in safe hands!

Samantha Neame

Hailsham Harriers

Our athletics club have used Sports Sytems for a few years. What's amazing about them is not that they get the basics right - which they do without fail - but the flexibility to meet our requirements.

‍

From a choice of race entry services to customising the live results list, nothing seems to be too much trouble. As a race director I can get quite demanding, but they don't bat an eyelid. And things almost always happen on the day of the request, and always within 24 hours. Professional, friendly, reliable, accurate. What more is there to want?"

Gerard Dummett

Lewes AC

I can't tell you how easy and stress-free Liam and the Sport Systems team made our 20k race. All communication was quick, clear and concise, their registration pages are very easy to use and race day was a breeze.

‍

Will most certainly use again and I recommend their services to anyone."

Richard Foster

East Grinstead Runners

Sport Systems' extensive experience is invaluable, particularly when facing unexpected challenges outside of their control. In those moments, their team respond quickly, calmly and professionally to ensure everything continues seamlessly.

‍

There is no other provider we would consider.They are far more than a race timing supplier, they are a trusted extension of our team and an essential part of delivering our events."

Ryan McAvoy

RunFanatics

We've used Sports Systems expertise since 2016 and they always provide an excellent online registration, chip timing and results service which has enabled our small club to concentrate on other things closer to home.

‍

On the day, their staff always fully engage with our event and they are a very welcome addition to the ambience we are trying to create."

Martin Fray

Compton Harriers Running Club

Sports Systems have taught me from the ground up how to organise an entry system. Their customer service is second to none. Every single person I have had communication with over the years has been brilliant.

‍

Sports Systems is a very special entry system, it is personal and has been for years and every single person I have had dealings with has been fantastic."

Caitlin Limmer

Race Director – Turks Head 10

Sport Systems' proven track record of providing complete event management services has enabled Reigate Priory AC to utilise them in a variety of roles, principally creating online entry stores, with granted visibility and access, and race timing.

‍

The twin benefits have been expedited Results and a reduction in the number of volunteers needed to stage the event."

Moray Carey

Moray Carey (former) RPAC Race Director