What's a pull tag?
"Many runners have never competed in a race that wasn't a 'chip' race," according to Greg Everal, of Everal Management, a Michigan timing and race management company.
At the February 23 race director training in Livonia MI, Everal predicted that within five years, most races would be using electronic timing devices (like the ChampionChip) and that race directors should be aware of the different experiences of new runners.
He explained how traditional (non-electronic) timing worked and offered finish line management tips.
Frankie D'Angelo, of Flagstar Bank, discussed events from the sponsor's point of view, stressing the importance of "communication, communication, and communication."
The 34 race directors from Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio who attended the session learned about sponsorship, finish lines, race operations, fund-raising, walks, and kids runs, often receiving some very frank advice.
Bottom line? View every aspect of the race from the audience perspective - runners, sponsors, media, community - not from the event's perspective.