Jonathan Newton of Summit Run Co. recently implemented remote location timing at the Yonah Mountain Vertical Challenge. This was Jonathan’s first RunSignup RaceDay Scoring event and he combined this with the RaceDay Mobile Timing app in Backup mode. With just an iPad and Starlink for connectivity, he managed to time a remote split from the top of Yonah Mountain, pushing the limits of event timing. Despite poor weather conditions and challenging location, Jonathan’s creative problem-solving and the right technology ensured a seamless experience for runners and spectators alike.
Timing with Starlink and an iPad
Jonathan utilized the RaceDay Mobile Timing app in Backup mode, running the splits all weekend with just an iPad and Starlink for connectivity. Splits were exported in real-time to a dropbox folder TXT file and imported as a stream into RaceDay Scoring. The hard-to-reach location was difficult to maneuver, even without a full timing setup. Shifting weather conditions added an extra layer of complexity. Strong winds and freezing temperatures forced volunteers to retreat to lower altitudes at times, resulting in some missing splits. To keep things running smoothly, Jonathan coordinated shift changes to relieve volunteers and ensure data collection continued as conditions allowed.
Elevating Spectator Engagement with Live Feeds
Jonathan’s background in AV and live streaming played a key role in enhancing the race experience. Instead of the usual approach of displaying recent finishers, he used a live camera feed at the summit to capture runners crossing the split point. He then overlaid real-time split data using a TXT report from RaceDay Scoring into OBS, creating a dynamic spectator experience. The auto-saving text report fed runner names directly into the broadcast, allowing viewers to see who was reaching the summit in real time.
Minimal Equipment, Maximum Impact
One of the biggest takeaways from Jonathan’s remote location timing at Yonah Mountain Vertical Challenge is the accessibility of this setup. With Starlink, an iPhone, RaceDay Scoring, and the RaceDay Mobile Timing app timers can deploy multiple remote splits with minimal equipment. This opens up new opportunities to provide high-quality timing solutions for trail races and other remote events.
Sharing Insights at the US Trail Running Conference
Jonathan will be sharing his expertise in a webinar on live streaming at the upcoming U.S. Trail Running Conference. With his deep knowledge of AV production and race technology, he’s proving that the right combination of innovation and resourcefulness can push the boundaries of race timing and engagement.
For timers looking to apply enhance their timing setups with live data and engaging visuals, Jonathan’s experience on Yonah Mountain showcases what’s possible with some creative thinking.