Don Hale inspects the control box while tag readers are installed around the lake. PICTURE: JEREMY BANNISTER
RUNNERS and cyclists at Lake Wendouree are one step closer to recording their lap times, after new underground microchip technology was installed yesterday.
Work took place on Wendouree Parade near Pleasant and the Steve Moneghetti Track to install sensors and a world-first timing clock, positioned for active Ballarat residents to record their lap times.
The works are part of the Best ‘O Lake initiative, which aims to improve the public health profile of the Ballarat region through regular training and time-trial events at the beginning of each season.
Organiser Ian Bennett said the work was being overseen by Queensland engineer Don Hale, who designed the technology, and was being paid for by the event committee.
“Each Best ‘O Lake participant will receive a microchip to measure their time and gauge their improvement throughout the year,” Dr Bennett said.
“The microchip can be used every day of the year, if required. This is the first time in Australia special O Tag technology has been permanently installed underground for community health and fitness use.”
The inaugural Best ‘O Lake event will take place on Sunday December 2, with participants organised into ability groupings and encouraged to record a personal best time.
Linking to email and social media, the timing clock will keep electronic records of participants’ lap times.
“The initiative grew from research showing that Ballarat has a poor health status compared to many parts of Victoria, and this, together with our beautiful lake, stimulated a plan to engage the community,” Dr Bennett said.
With support from the City of Ballarat, Best ‘O Lake is organised by the Redan Football Netball Club and is aiming to capitalise on recent events including last week’s Run Ballarat.
For more information or to register, visit www.bestolake.com.au.