Revolutionary Automated Timing System for Swimming with a Cost of MVR 400,000

The swimming association has adopted automated timing systems and push pads to collect swimmers' timing data.

Ismail Ali, the association's Vice-President, expressed his belief that this system will transform the development of local swimmers, and he extended his gratitude to the parents of the athletes for their support in its establishment.

"The system required an investment of approximately MVR 400,000. In addition to the association, numerous generous contributors from among parents of swimmers financially supported the implementation of this system, for which I am truly appreciative. Their support has significantly boosted the sport," said Ismail.

Before the introduction of the automated timing system, event timing in the country relied on manual stopwatch usage. This led to complaints regarding accuracy and delays in result reporting, noted Ismail. However, he highlighted that the new system would address these issues.

"In the past, maintaining records was a challenge, and result declarations faced delays. Complaints about inaccurate timing with stopwatch usage were common," Ismail explained the difficulties associated with manual timing.

"Now, every swimmer can obtain precise and immediate timing information on the screen. This advancement will enhance swimmer development and accelerate the overall pace of swimming."

The system is already in use at the ongoing 47th National Swimming Competition. Ismail also pointed out that push pads cannot be utilized in saltwater when tournaments are held in the sea on islands without swimming pools, even if the automated timing system is employed.

Additionally, the system can record results for both short course (25m) and long course (50m) events. However, Ismail clarified that the system, primarily designed for short course events, will not maintain national records for 50m pool events.