Hu Tag

A Hu Tag is a wearable RFID tracking device used in motorsport and other athletic events to automatically identify and time participants as they pass electronic checkpoints throughout a course.

The name "Hu Tag" is short for "Human Tagging," which describes its primary purpose of tracking people rather than vehicles or objects. These small electronic tags use radio-frequency identification technology, meaning they communicate wirelessly with special readers positioned around a race course without requiring any batteries or manual scanning.

In motorsport applications, Hu Tags are particularly valuable for events where drivers or riders need to be tracked on foot, such as during rally co-driver stages, pit crew timing, paddock access control, or multi-discipline racing events that combine driving with running segments. They're also widely used in adventure racing, triathlons, and other endurance sports that may incorporate motorsport elements.

The technology works by emitting a unique identification signal that can be detected from up to 8 meters away. When a participant wearing a Hu Tag passes near a reader device, their presence is automatically recorded along with a precise timestamp. This eliminates the need for manual check-ins or visual confirmation, making timing more accurate and reducing the chance of human error.

These tags are designed to withstand harsh conditions commonly encountered in motorsport environments. They're waterproof and can survive exposure to mud, sand, dirt, and other debris. Some models feature UV-resistant casings to prevent sun damage during long outdoor events. This durability is essential for multi-day rallies or endurance races where equipment must perform reliably in challenging weather.

Hu Tags can be attached to a person's body using various methods depending on the event requirements. Waterproof paper straps offer a lightweight, disposable option for single-use events. Velcro straps provide reusable attachment that's easy to adjust. Tamper-proof straps prevent unauthorized removal during competitions where security and verification are important.

The tags are engineered to be readable from multiple angles, whether positioned vertically or horizontally on the body. This flexibility ensures consistent detection regardless of how a participant moves through a checkpoint, which is especially important in fast-paced racing situations where people may be running, climbing, or moving in unpredictable ways.

Beyond motorsport, the same Hu Tag technology serves various purposes in industrial settings and healthcare facilities where tracking personnel movement is necessary for safety or operational efficiency. However, in the racing world, their primary value lies in providing accurate, automated timing data that helps organizers manage complex events with multiple participants and checkpoints.