Scoring
Before we continue with the details - please see the FAQ for specific answers to scoring and transponder related questions. You are also invited to download (Click here) and print the sheet containing details about how to mount your transponder. If you're unable to view the flier, click this link to download and install Acrobat Reader.
Scoring off-road events has traditionally been one of the most difficult aspects of hosting an event. The VXCS has embraced a relatively new technology for scoring - implementing the use of transponders and a remote display (for real time scoring) instead of having to endure the delays inherent when using barcodes, or the punch-cards of the days gone by.
Use of transponders for scoring racing events began gaining popularity when the technology was implemented in car races, then later (1999) in marathon events such as the Boston Marathon.
One of the prohibiting factors in the past was the cost of the transponders. A Nascar competitor can expect to pay $300.00 for his transponder, and the total cost of the scoring system (not including the transponders) can easily exceed $60,000.
With the advent of better transponders, and reliable software to manage the data being input from the transponders, today's promoter is able to incorporate this latest technology at a fraction of what it cost in the recent past.
Unlike the expensive transponders used by the Nascar crowd, the ones used by VXCS require no batteries, have an indefinite life, will operate even when covered with mud, and the ONLY limitation is they cannot be mounted directly on metal. They're small, almost weightless, measuring roughly 4.75 inches long, by .75 inch in diameter.
VXCS, riders will be issued a transponder as part of the VXCS membership.
Riders are cautioned to not look for outside sources for these transponders since the software is specifically geared towards a particular transponder. You run the risk of incompatibility if you purchase one from an unaffiliated source.
The transponders will be programmed with the riders number during rider registration. If your number is constant throughout the year, there's no need to reprogram the transponder - the number remains in the transponder until reprogrammed with a different number. If your rider number changes, simply have the personnel at registration update it with your new rider number. As you use a different rider numbers from year to year, there's no need to purchase a new transponder - simply reprogram it with the new number during rider registration.
Additional data will be posted regarding where you can purchase your transponder, but in the meanwhile, if you'd like to get ahead of the pack - This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .
Incorporated with the Transponder technology is the use of real-time scoring. As riders pass through the scoring area the software automatically computes their current position, and displays that information on the screen directly ahead of them.
Shown here are three example displays, one showing the class leader, another showing a rider in second place, 25 seconds behind the rider in front of him, and the third shows a rider who hadn't been entered in the database during rider registration. Although this "unknown" rider will show up in the overall standings, he will not appear in any class standings until the registration data has been modified to reflect who he is.
The VXCS looks forward to embracing this innovative technology. This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it if you have any questions on this subject. We also invite you to visit the VXCS FAQ for answers to other frequently asked questions.
You can also click here for additional information on the system used for scoring VXCS events.
QUESTIONS
Are you interested in racing or sponsoring? Points and youth issues? Contact emails are
- GENERAL
Tim Norris - POINTS
Chris Taylor - YOUTH CLASS ISSUE
Jason Perry
