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Success of chip timing a year ago to fuel participation increase
BETTENDORF, Iowa - Officials with the Quad-City Times Bix 7, slated for Saturday, July 26, are anticipating growth for its 34th edition - thanks in part to chip timing. Last year, the race used chip timing for the first time in the event's history as 11,326 finished the country's largest 7 mile road race. The smooth transition for volunteers and competitors will enable more people to participate and "feel great" doing the Bix 7 in 2008.
"The success of the chip timing was overwhelming," said race director Ed Froehlich, entering his 29th year at the helm of the race. "Now we hope to expand on this system as we look to have one of our largest races ever in 2008."
For those unfamiliar with the transponder system, small computer chips are attached to a runner's shoelaces and are activated and deactivated by crossing mats at the start and finish lines. This means that runners' actual running time starts when they reach the start mat and also means that runners will encounter a smoother finishing area since chutes are no longer needed.
It not only assists those running the main race, but those that choose to run the Lee Enterprises "Quick Bix" two-mile option.
The Bix 7 organizers also welcomed the Scott County Regional Authority as the sponsor of the "All City Challenge" and the Cardiovascular Medicine and Dr. Michael Giudici now serve as the official hosts of "Bix Legends" and Olympians Bill Rodgers and Joan Benoit Samuelson.
The weekend kicks off once again with the Alcoa Jr. Bix on Friday, July 25 at 6:00pm. The event will welcome Children 12 & Under to share in the excitement of race weekend. Opening night concludes with the Brady Street "Sprint" immediately following the Jr. Bix.
Registration for the Bix 7 events, a midwest summer tradition, is available through applications in the Quad City Area or at the event's website: Bix7.com.
Ryan Lamppa, Running USA Media Director
(805) 696-6232; Fax = (805) 659-0016
Ryan@RunningUSA.org
www.RunningUSA.org.
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