A runner during a marathon.
(Photo illustration) -
Superstock / SIPA
Unlike many events, canceled due to the coronavirus, the London Marathon and will take place this Sunday.
Physical distancing can be respected there thanks to Bump, a connected object that will allow the hundred or so athletes to maintain a safe distance.
Created by British company Tharsus, Bump can be worn around the neck or hung on clothing, reports Engadget.
It emits sound and light signals as soon as its user is too close to another person equipped with the same device.
The object therefore limits the risks of contamination for the runners, who will compete against the 42,195 km of the course.
Elite athletes are competing in the @LondonMarathon for the 40th race this year, with the help of Bump's cutting-edge social distancing and contact tracing technology.
#LondonMarathon # The40thRace https://t.co/i1vavbWPH9
- Tharsus (@Tharsusltd) September 30, 2020
A very secure marathon
The system also keeps track of the frequency and length of contacts between two users.
The organizers of the London Marathon thus ensure that they can identify contact cases after the fact if a participant tests positive for Covid-19.
Bump is not the only device put in place to prevent the virus from circulating during the race, which will take place behind closed doors.
The route will not cross London but will consist of a loop to be made almost 20 times around St James's Park.
Competitors were screened at their homes, upon arrival in London and once again upon checking in at the official hotel, which is closed to anyone from outside.
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Covid 19
Marathon
Connected objects
Coronavirus
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