FlightScope has released a new 3D doppler tracking radar for track and field throwers and coaches called FlightScope Athletics. The radar measures launch speed, apex height, flight time, and release angle during throws for track and field events such as the hammer throw, shot put, discus, and javelin.
FlightScope Athletics combines lightweight and portable 3D tracking radar hardware with advanced ballistic flight analysis software to track thrown objects from launch until they land. After throwing, athletes can observe their throw data in real-time via a dashboard that comes with synced video analysis and performance feedback. The product also offers a sector grouping feature to keep track of where each throw landed throughout a training session.
“For almost 20 years, we have been a trusted tool for athletes of all kinds to help improve their game,” said Henri Johnson, CEO of FlightScope, in a press release. “We are proud to introduce a product that will help a new sect of athletes, and provide reliable data for them to use to improve their skills and take them to the next level.”
Founded in 1989, FlightScope’s tracking technology has been used in golf to measure the flight statistics of golf balls hit. The company also has applications for cricket, tennis, softball, and baseball. Britney Henry, a former hammer thrower at the University of Oregon, has joined FlightScope Athletics as Head of Business Development.
“The FlightScope Athletics Radar helps throwers in so many ways—it helps track progression through a training year, giving athletes updates on where they stand physically and offering coaches data and video feedback to indicate how a thrower is progressing,” Henry said in the press release. “I am extremely humbled that FlightScope has brought me on board to show the track and field world how this technology can improve one’s throw. This is a tool I wish I had during my throwing career.”
SportTechie Takeaway
This performance tracking tool will be useful for both athletes and coaches involved in track and field throwing events. Rival doppler radar tracking company Trackman is used in MLB’s Statcast and now also in field goal tracking technology that has been part of NBC Sports’ Sunday Night Football broadcast this NFL season.