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Pictures of the Timing Equipment in Operation

Timing Equipment

Opening Page

Timing Equipment Development Charter

The System - Pictures

Operation of the Equipment

Bushnell Laser Range Finder

The Wind Logger

Bob Spagnoletti starting competitors and entering their sail numbers as they cross the start line. Example screen display.

At Weymouth where the course is run from the water, the start line is defined as a line from the 'operator' on the start boat to a marker buoy astern of the start boat. This line is perpendicular to the course.

As the competitor crosses the start line 'start' is pressed on the keypad, this instantly records the time and opens the radio channel. The competitor's sail number is then entered and the windspeed is automatically read by the system. This packet of information is transmitted to the 'finish boat' and to a receiver system in the club house.

 

Nick Povey on Mitzatori finishing the competitors as they cross the finish line.

The information previously sent by the start boat has been received by the finish boat system and alerted the operator to the fact that the competitor is on the course. On the computer screen the sail number will appear with the legend 'on course' alongside. It is possible to have several competitors on the course at the same time.

When the competitor crosses the finish line the operator presses 'finish' on the keypad followed by the sail number. The windspeed is once again automatically read. All of this information is transmitted. The computer screens on shore and at each end of the course will now display the sail number, average windspeed during the run and the competitor's speed.

 

Mitzatori, the Weymouth Sailing Centre's 'workhorse' is ideally suited as an observation and control centre. It is used at the finish end of the course where competitors will cross the finsh line which extends behind and in front of Mitzatori.

In addition it has the virtue of a good water level step at the rear making it very easy to welcome people aboard. Many journalists and camera crews record events from this boat.

Amended 08/04/06