Omega’s Precision Timing Ensures Fair Play at the Paralympic Games

Sports John Brightwater September 6, 2024

Omega’s Precision Timing Ensures Fair Play at the Paralympic Games

Omega, the renowned Swiss watchmaker, has been an official partner of the Olympic Games since 1932 and of the Paralympics since 1992, currently holding a top-tier partnership status. This year, approximately 260 employees from Omega are committed to ensuring the smooth execution of timing and scoring at the Paralympic Games in Paris, under the guidance of Chief Executive Officer Alain Zobrist, who emphasized the importance of accuracy with the statement, “Once you hit the enter key, you cannot go back.”

As with each new Olympic venue, Omega is dedicated to introducing advancements in its timekeeping systems. The 2024 Paris Games have witnessed the implementation of state-of-the-art photo finish cameras with an impressive capability of capturing 40,000 frames per second, alongside enhanced sensors at the starting line that record reaction times to the accuracy of one-quarter of a millisecond. While these features are utilized in both the Olympic and Paralympic events, certain improvements are tailored exclusively for the Paralympics. Omega has facilitated several demonstrations for media representatives to showcase the operational efficiency of their systems.

In a recent display at the Stade de France, Zobrist highlighted the installation of photocells positioned closer to the ground to effectively capture the timing of wheelchair athletes and the integration of synchronized flashlights on starting blocks in accordance with the sound of the starting gun. Moreover, the determination of winners in events is standardized; the front torso serves as the adjudicator in standing races, whereas the foremost part of the wheel is used in wheelchair competitions. This method provoked discussion during the recent Olympics regarding the men’s 100-meter final between Noah Lyles and Kishane Thompson, where Lyles, with his front torso crossing the line first, was awarded the gold medal. Zobrist affirmed, “There was no controversy; everything is laid out perfectly.” To further ensure fairness, a 30-minute window is permitted for protests following track and field competitions, reinforcing the commitment to equitable play.

In addition to their primary focus on timing and scoring, Omega’s responsibilities at the Games extend to various other essential services at each venue. The company provides real-time graphics to broadcasters illustrating the position of competitors, in addition to delivering critical data and statistics to audiences worldwide. Zobrist remarked on the expertise of Omega’s staff, predominantly consisting of engineers devoted to precision and meticulous detail, stating, “It is great to work alongside such a great group.”

In summary, Omega’s relentless pursuit of innovation and commitment to accuracy plays a pivotal role in maintaining the integrity and excitement of the Paralympic Games, ensuring that every athlete is given a fair opportunity to showcase their talents.