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Compaq, Nextel to track marathon runners

Runners in this year's Boston Marathon will have their every move tracked by Compaq Computer and Nextel Communications. The two companies will provide a wireless network that will monitor every registered participant in the 106th B.A.A. Boston Marathon this April 15. Tiny computer chips will be attached to the running shoes or wheelchairs of all participants, transmitting their location as they cross sensor mats placed at intervals along the course. The system will use 22 Compaq iPaq Pocket PCs and Nextel modems to relay the information to 22 Compaq volunteers wearing red shirts with "Ask Me About Your Runner" emblazoned on them. The "Compaq Athlete Search System" will also provide information about runners at Bostonmarathon.org, allowing anyone in the world to track a participant with only a name or bib number.

Runners in this year's Boston Marathon will have their every move tracked by Compaq Computer and Nextel Communications. The two companies will provide a wireless network that will monitor every registered participant in the 106th B.A.A. Boston Marathon this April 15. Tiny computer chips will be attached to the running shoes or wheelchairs of all participants, transmitting their location as they cross sensor mats placed at intervals along the course. The system will use 22 Compaq iPaq Pocket PCs and Nextel modems to relay the information to 22 Compaq volunteers wearing red shirts with "Ask Me About Your Runner" emblazoned on them.

The "Compaq Athlete Search System" will also provide information about runners at Bostonmarathon.org, allowing anyone in the world to track a participant with only a name or bib number.