| Subject: |
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Re: GPS measured 26.4 |
| Name: |
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Kevin |
| Date Posted: |
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Nov 11, 07 - 6:40 AM |
| Message: |
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Because of the scientist in me, I run with my handheld GPS frequently (Garmin 60 Csx, which has fantastic reception and accuracy), and notice differences in my run distances. Race courses are measured on the tangent (IAAF rules of staying one meter from the curb in the running direction and taking the shortest distance between two points on curved roads). Your and my measurements are usually longer, especially if we simply run the road, instead of continually running in a straight line, on the tangents of the curves.
I don't know how this marathon was measured but according to USATF rules, they use a calibrated bicycle method, which requires a specific type of measurement device that attaches to a bicycle. The number of wheel rotations to cover the course distance is measured using the bike, then compared to the number required to cover a known distance (a standard calibration course, measured using steel tape).
http://www.usatf.org/events/courses/certification/manual/requirements.asp
Then again, there are many instances of races which were measured incorrectly. As we well know, the official marathon distance is 26 miles, 385 yards.
Brief History: The 1896 Olympic marathon distance was 24.8 miles, based on the distance run from Marathon to Athens. The marathon distance was later changed as a result of the 1908 Olympic Games in London. That year, King Edward VII and Queen Alexandria wanted the marathon race to begin at Windsor Castle outside the city so that the Royal family could view the start. The distance between the castle and the Olympic Stadium in London proved to be 26 miles. Organizers added extra yards to the finish around a track, 385 to be exact, so the runners would finish in front of the king and queen's royal box. Every Olympic marathon run since the 1908 Games has been a distance of 26 miles, 385 yards.
The 2005 Chicago Lakeshore Marathon was 27.2 miles. The 2007 Dayton ORRRC Marathon was 24.4796 miles. I could go on, but let's hope the Richmond marathon was accurate (or shorter! ) and not longer than need be! |
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