FAT timing How to Discussion

[Sean Allan]

I have a series of questions regarding track and field timing and what Agee does and does not do.

First off, it looks like MeetPro is probably the most affordable athletics timing software vs Hytek.  When using MeetPro are you syncing it with FinishLynx or Agee, or both?  I guess I'm curious how one can couple the use of RFID with FinishLynx, MeetPro, and Agee for capturing splits as an example.

As for FinishLynx, it is obviously pretty expensive, but most people recommend biting the bullet and starting with it, mostly because it is more scaleable.

With that said what "package" would people recommend?  I don't want to overdo it, but I also don't want to be left without certain features that I will immediately regret not having.

Also where do you buy from, everyone seems to be a reseller with similar prices?

Any and all advice welcome.

Thanks,

Sean

[Mark Messer]

Hi Sean. If you want to get into track & field timing, FinishLynx is really the way to go. There are some other options out there, but the majority of people use FL. I don't think I would worry about integrating ART for track. Most meets I time don't have any expectation for splits, but when I need splits, I get them simply by using the camera itself. There is the possibility of integrating RFID with FL for cross country however, which is a pretty powerful combination.

MeetPro is definitely a much more affordable meet management application than HyTek. If your entry platform is Athletic.net, I would take a look at RunMeet, which is built into that platform. Best thing is that RunMeet is simple and free. I use RunMeet every chance I get. I have used EasyMeet Manager in the past, which is another very affordable option. Our state tournament mandates the use of HyTek for those regional and sectional meets.

For a Lynx equipment recommendation, I would recommend you start with a camera with 1,000 frames per second. You can get the hi-res option that is 2,000 fps, but it may not be money well spent for what you are timing. I upgraded my camera to 2,000, but find I don't really need the higher resolution for most races. Other options I would recommend right from the start are 1) RadioLynx wireless start system, 2) ACM Auto-Capture, 3) Remote Positioner, 4) Remote Lens, 5) IdentiLynx forward facing camera and 6) Lux-Boost low light capture. This would would be a great system to start with for track timing and would be upgradable if needed. You can read about the options I mentioned online. I would struggle without them at this point. FYI - You would need a couple of more plugins to integrate ART for XC.

I would contact Don Passenger at Michiana Timing (616-821-3156, https://michianatiming.com/services/finish-lynx-products-fat-timing-systems-and-accessories/) for additional help. He is a FL reseller and is very knowledgable. I bought all of my equipment through him. He can help you figure out exactly what you need and get a specific quote, probable something like a Bronze+ or a Silver- package. I believe there is a small discount if you order through Don or another authorized reseller.

Regards,
Mark Messer

OnYourMarks Timing

[Brandon Daniels]

Mark really hit the nail on the head with his overview.

To pile on, I'd highly recommend networking with some other Finish Lynx timing companies just outside of your market to see if you can volunteer and learn the ropes.  Direct competitors in your market probably won't be of much help.  

There's definitely a huge learning curve when it comes to FAT timing vs chip timing especially with the technical understanding/expertise that's required to run Finish Lynx at a track meet smoothly (e.g., ethernet networking, basic photography and light/exposure understanding, etc.)  From what I've seen, there's a pretty high "wash out" rate for timers/schools who try Finish Lynx and find it too difficult or too uncomfortable.  

Not trying to scare you away from it.  Definitely give it a shot if you can see yourself doing it.  But I try to tell people that this kind of timing isn't as easy as it might look, and it definitely isn't for the faint of heart.  And working with people who are already good at it is the best way to overcome the learning curve and the unspoken intimidation factor.  

For the first few years, I always worked with a mentor or a partner (so that we could watch each other's back and avoid any mishaps).  And then sooner or later I gained the confidence to do most track meets by myself.

With Finish Lynx, most timers use the LapTime plugin to do splits at track meets.  You really don't see RFID at track meets when Finish Lynx is used.  But when it comes to using RFID for cross country, Finish Lynx works really well with Brian's ART Agee software.

[Sean Allan]

Thank you for the feedback/suggestions.