Ensuring Fairness at the Paralympics: Omega’s Commitment to Precision Timekeeping

Sports John Brightwater September 4, 2024

Ensuring Fairness at the Paralympics: Omega’s Commitment to Precision Timekeeping

In order to ensure fairness at the Paralympic Games, Omega has meticulously adjusted its timekeeping systems, as stated by Chief Executive Officer Alain Zobrist. This year, roughly 260 Omega employees are dedicated to providing advanced timing solutions, guided by the principle that once a time is recorded, it cannot be altered.

Omega, a prestigious Swiss watchmaker, has been an official partner of the Olympics since 1932 and has supported the Paralympic Games since 1992 in Barcelona. As a top-tier partner, Omega consistently seeks to innovate its timekeeping technology with each new host city. At the upcoming Paris 2024 Games, Omega will unveil new photo finish cameras capable of capturing images at 40,000 frames per second, along with highly advanced sensors that measure starting reaction times with precision down to a quarter of a millisecond.

While the enhancements are applicable to both the Olympic and Paralympic Games, certain features are specifically tailored for the Paralympics. During recent demonstrations provided to journalists at the Stade de France, Zobrist highlighted the installation of photocells closer to the ground to accurately record times for wheelchair competitors. Furthermore, synchronized flashlights will be positioned on the starting blocks to correspond with the sound of the starting gun, enhancing the competition experience.

The implementation of standardized timing practices is crucial in distinguishing winners in various events. In standing events, the front torso is used to determine the winner, while in wheelchair events, the measurement is taken from the front of the wheel. This methodology effectively resolved any confusion evident during the men’s 100-meter final at the last Olympics, where the front torso of Noah Lyles crossed the finish line first, thereby securing the gold medal.

To maintain integrity within the competition, Omega, in collaboration with the International Paralympic Committee, allows a 30-minute window for filing protests following track and field events. As Mr. Zobrist has articulated, “It is the only way to keep everything fair.”

Although Omega’s primary responsibility centers around timing and scoring, the company fulfills numerous additional roles at each venue. They are responsible for delivering live graphics displaying the competitive gaps during broadcasts and effectively supplying vital data and statistics to audiences worldwide. Mr. Zobrist emphasizes the significance of precision, stating that their team mainly comprises engineers devoted to accuracy and detail, reinforcing Omega’s commitment to excellence in serving the Paralympic Games.