GPS Tracker Trial

GPS Tracker Trial

The FRA’s Safety, Equipment and Rules (SER) Committee has decided to run a two-race trial of GPS trackers in 2025.  In this communication we have tried to answer any questions that members may have about this initiative. 

First of all, let’s try to stop any howls of protest!   There is absolutely no intention to roll out GPS trackers to fell races in general.  We are only considering them for use at mountain marathons, mountain orienteering events and the very toughest, mountainous AL races.  Secondly, runners' positions would only be visible to the race organisers, no “dot watching". Thirdly, we are conscious that this technology would add additional cost to putting on a race.  A key part of the trial will be to assess the costs and potentially come up with ways to mitigate against cost becoming a barrier to use. 

So, with that out of the way, what are we doing and why?   

The reason we have decided to look at them now is purely on the grounds of safety.  GPS trackers are now proven technology in common use at various running events, including mountain marathons.  For events on truly mountainous terrain where the risks are heightened, we felt it would be negligent of the FRA to simply ignore or discount the use GPS trackers.  Whilst we love to be different and will always promote the use of traditional methods, at the same time we really should take reasonable steps to avoid people coming to harm.   

The trial will show us whether trackers do offer a significant additional safety benefit - it may conclude not.  But at least we will have conducted the trial and gained a better understanding as a result. 

The trial will run over two races this summer.  A project team has been put together to plan, run and assess the trial.  Following the two races, the project team will make a recommendation to the Executive Committee on whether we advocate their use in future.   

The project team is currently defining the scope of the trial, including how we are going to put the system to the test during the two races.  We are pleased to say that Open Tracking have come on board to support us with the trial, offering their services and equipment at no charge.  

We look forward to providing more information on the trial in due course, including which races are involved.  As ever, we are keen to hear your views on such potentially controversial topics.  If you have views or questions, please get in touch with us via the Club Ambassadors or direct to the General Secretary on [email protected]