SPORTident Timing Cards for Orienteering & Endurance Events
SPORTident is an electronic timing system used to record competitors’ progress during an event. Each participant carries a personal electronic timing card that records the control number and the exact time each checkpoint is visited. After finishing, the information stored on the card is downloaded to produce overall results and split times.
Originally developed for orienteering, the system is now widely used in mountain bike orienteering (MTBO), mountain marathons, MTB Enduro, adventure racing and many other endurance events where accurate electronic timing is required.
This category includes personal timing cards for competitors. Whether you’re taking part in your first local orienteering event or competing regularly throughout the season, owning your own card means you’re always ready to enter events that use this system.
Choosing a SPORTident Timing Card
Every event follows the same basic principle.
Electronic timing stations are placed around the course, and each station has its own unique control number. As you visit each checkpoint, your card records both the control number and the exact time. After finishing, your split times and overall result are downloaded from it.
Many newcomers hire a timing card from the event organiser when they first try orienteering. If you compete regularly, owning your own is often more convenient because you can use the same card at events throughout the UK and at many international competitions that operate the same technology.
There are two main types of competitor card. SI-Cards record each control by being inserted into the timing station. SIAC (SPORTident Active Card) supports the AIR+ system, allowing compatible stations to register your visit without inserting the card. SIAC is widely used in orienteering, mountain bike orienteering (MTBO), MTB Enduro, mountain marathons and other adventure sports where contactless punching offers an advantage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a SPORTident timing card?
It is a personal electronic device used to record the controls you visit and the exact time you reach each checkpoint during an event.
Do I need my own card?
No. Many events offer timing cards for hire, making it easy to try the sport before buying your own. However, regular competitors often choose to own one for convenience and to use the same card throughout the season.
What sports use this system?
Electronic timing is widely used for orienteering, mountain bike orienteering (MTBO), mountain marathons, MTB Enduro, adventure racing and many other endurance events.
What’s the difference between an SI-Card and a SIAC?
An SI-Card records your visit by being inserted into the timing station. A SIAC (SPORTident Active Card) uses the AIR+ system and can register your visit at compatible stations without inserting the card into the unit. Both work with the same timing infrastructure but use different punching methods.
Can I use my card at different events?
Yes. These cards are designed to be used at events operating the same electronic timing system. Always check the organiser’s event information to confirm which card types are supported.