Shannon Sports IT Providing IT services to Motorsport

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It is obviously easiest to locate the passage control at a service in – this also requires fewest personnel. This method is still quite common, but is becoming less so, especially for National rounds. The main disadvantage is that, as there are usually several stages (2 or 3) on each timecard, data entry will be slower, and it is thus not really practicable to issue competitors with “interim” results at a service out if the times are being collected and entered at service in (especially if couriers are being used).


To use the “one loop per timecard” method, you will need either one results crew at service (two people – one to collect, and one to enter), with a laptop computer and a phone connection, or you will need at least 2 couriers (preferably on motorbikes). The first courier should leave for HQ as soon as approx. 25 timecards have been collected; the second after a further 25-30, and thereafter alternating as fast as possible. Interim results after one loop can be couriered out to service to be given to competitors the next time round.


The best way by far for being able to produce “real-time” results – on the Internet, and for distribution to competitors – is to have just one stage on each time card, and to locate a passage control after each stage, as close to the “stop” car as can be managed. To do this you will need to locate some willing householder or business in or around “road out” who will let you use their phone line. From experience, this rarely causes any difficulty! If this method is used, a “distribution” point can be set up, usually at service, where results are printed from the Internet for distribution to competitors. With a 3-stage loop then service, results to the second stage of the loop can be handed out easily; if there is a substantial road section, or service is not too short, it is usually possible to hand out results for all stages prior to the service.


To use the “one stage per timecard” method, you will need one results crew per stage (two people – one to collect, and one to enter the times. Youngsters are a great asset here as collectors!). You will also need a laptop computer, preferably with an in-car power adapter, and arrangements for a phone connection. For interim distribution of results, you will need another person to do this (one will do), with another laptop computer, phone connection, and a high-speed printer.