RFID Race Timing System

The Challenge

Local fell running clubs were timing races manually with stopwatches and clipboards. For events with 100+ runners, this meant long waits for results and potential for human error. They needed an affordable, portable timing system that could work in remote locations without reliable internet.

The Solution

I designed and built a complete timing system using off-the-shelf hardware and custom software:

Hardware:

• Raspberry Pi as the main controller
• UHF RFID reader for detecting runner tags
• Timing mat with embedded antennas
• Battery power for remote locations
• Rugged case for outdoor conditions

Software:

• Python application on the Pi for tag detection and local timing
• Laravel backend for results management and web display
• WebSocket connections for live result updates
• Offline-first design - syncs when connectivity available

Technical Details

The system needed to handle the specific challenges of fell running:

• Muddy conditions: Waterproof enclosures and robust connectors
• No mains power: Runs for 8+ hours on a single battery
• Spotty connectivity: Works entirely offline, syncs results later
• Multiple timing points: Support for split times at checkpoints

Accuracy:

• Sub-second timing precision
• Handles multiple runners crossing together
• Automatic detection of duplicate reads

Results

• Used at 10+ local fell running events
• Handles 150+ runners per event reliably
• Results available in real-time when connected
• Significant cost saving vs commercial timing systems