Paddlers' Information

DEVIZES WESTMINSTER 2014 GPS TRACKING TRIAL

Technology that is able to 'track' the progress of entrants to DW has been around for a while and the DW Organising Team has been actively exploring options for eight years. Until recently we have not been aware of any technology that would meet the core requirements of the race organisers.

We're pleased to announce that this year we are to run a GPS Tracking Trial with a number of participants of the Senior Doubles race.

This is a development that we know many competitors will both appreciate and have been looking for, as well as something the Organising Team have been keen to introduce.

We are certain there will be many questions about the introduction of trackers and running a trial.

Below is a list of FAQs that we hope will address some of these concerns. We will update the FAQ with additional questions we received to summarise the main issues.

We very much hope the DW community will do what they can to support this development. As with any trial, there is a risk of problems; with your support we will do all we can to keep these to a minimum.

The DW Organising Team

 

 

Why are DW introducing trackers?

There are two principal reasons:

First, to make the race more accessible and visible to paddlers, supporters crews, remote supporters and any other interested parties such as the media. Following the race is difficult at present and it is hoped the trackers will make it easier.

Secondly, trackers provide an additional safety measure along the course. The trackers might enable support crews to locate their "lost" crew, which can happen at night. The trackers will also provide improved location information for crews on the tideway in the dark.

While there are safety benefits, these should not be seen as a substitute for personal responsibility when entering and supporting DW.

How big is the tracker?

It is a small rectangular device (60mm x 40mm x 25mm), about the size of a small matchbox, and weighs about 60gms.

How does it work?

The device uses GPS location and sends updates via a mobile signal which automatically post and plot to the map on the tracking page.

DW have teamed up with Open Tracking (OT - www.opentracking.co.uk) who run outdoor events as well as providing a tracking hire service. A few crews used OT trackers for DW 2013. OT will provide the hardware and web-based tracking.

What did the crews who used the trackers last year think of them?

The response is overwhelmingly positive both in terms of them being of an acceptable size and weight. For the support crews as well as supporting family and friends, the response has been equally supportive.

Who will have trackers?

To get the maximum benefit from the trial, we will be selecting the fastest crews in the Senior Doubles race plus the leading contenders in the main sub classes. This is likely to cover ladies, mixed and C2.

A number of crews heading for the second tide will also be tracked.

We will have capacity within the trial for a few random / volunteer crews to have trackers. If you would like to volunteer, please get in touch. This will be done on a first come first served basis, subject to availability.

How will the crews be selected?

A small team of experienced DW paddlers will review the start lists and select the relevant crews.

This is in addition to those opting for the second tide.

How will I know if I've been selected for a tracker?

You will be informed at check-in.

It is hoped to publish a list of selected crews on the website a few days before the race but this is not guaranteed.

Do I have to carry the tracker?

Yes.

This is covered in the rules under following the directions of officials. Failure to do so can result in time penalties or disqualification.

How good is the track?

Technically, the plan is to get location updates every 90 second which provides a battery life of approximately 30 hours for the device.

90 second updates will provide a location to better than 400m (for the fastest crews).

Provided the tracker has mobile signal (it has a SIM card inside) the updates will be close to real time. If it does not have signal it will send the updates the next time it does!

How can I see the track?

Our race partners, Open Tracking, will create a dedicated webpage which will show all the trackers on a map. Their system allows you to select a particular tracker and to zoom in to get a more accurate location.

The URL will be published and a link provided from the DW website.

How will the tracker be fitted?

We are still working on the final detail, but the tracker will be in an immersion proof pouch supplied by DW. This will be attached to the buoyancy aid of one of the paddlers.

Is this being used for timing?

No. The tracker is not a timing device. It is being used to provide additional "real time" location information.

How will I get the device?

Open Tracking will be at the start in Devizes on Saturday to issue the trackers. They will be assisted by a member of the DW team.

Once identified at check-in the tracker will be activated and sealed into the waterproof pouch and then attached to the paddler's buoyancy aid.

Once fitted the paddler doesn't have to do anything with it.

A DW team member will collect the tracker at Westminster.

If you retire during the race the tracker can be handed to any checkpoint or failing that returned to Open Tracking by post.

Why aren't you including the 4-day event in the trial?

We would like to. However, the technical and logistical challenges of covering the 4-day race are currently too great to cover. If we can overcome these between now and Easter, we will do what we can.

The trackers sound good. Can I hire them privately?

Yes, they are good. You can hire them directly from Open Tracking. They don't normally provide this service, but are happy to do so.

You can contact Open Tracking through www.opentracking.co.uk.

DW have agreed with Open Tracking that all private hires for DW2014 will be posted on the DW2014 tracking page as a condition of hire.

If you want to be certain of having a tracker for DW2014 you should hire one privately.

I still have some questions. Who should I contact?

For all enquiries, including requests to be considered as a volunteer for tracking, please contact DW by email.

If you would like to hire a device directly from Open Tracking, please contact them