Developing a Data Visualization System for the Bank of America Chicago Marathon (Chicago, Illinois USA).

As one of the largest marathons worldwide, the Bank of America Chicago Marathon (BACCM; Chicago, Illinois USA) accumulates high volumes of data. Race organizers and engaged agencies need the ability to access specific data in real-time. This report details a data visualization system designed for the Chicago Marathon and establishes key principles for event management data visualization. The data visualization system allows for efficient data communication among the organizing agencies of Chicago endurance events. Agencies can observe the progress of the race throughout the day and obtain needed information, such as the number and location of runners on the course and current weather conditions. Implementation of the system can reduce time-consuming, face-to-face interactions between involved agencies by having key data streams in one location, streamlining communications with the purpose of improving race logistics, as well as medical preparedness and response. Hanken T , Young S , Smilowitz K , Chiampas G , Waskowski D . Developing a data visualization system for the Bank of America Chicago Marathon (Chicago, Illinois USA). Prehosp Disaster Med. 2016;31(5):572-577.

Data Value in Patient Tracking Systems at Racing Events.

PURPOSE: With the growing popularity of long-distance running races, an emerging area of interest for race organizers is the ability to electronically track and understand participant status throughout events to optimize runner and spectator experience and to identify and respond to the dynamic needs of both communities. This study examines the potential value of developing real-time patient tracking systems (PTS) at marathons based on the Chicago Medical Patient Tracking System (CMPTS). METHODS: Data collected from the CMPTS and timing mats along the course for two running races in 2012 and 2013 were analyzed for data completeness and data value. Subjects consisted of patients who were tracked electronically in the system. RESULTS: A comparison of medical data collected by PTS and paper forms is provided. Once fully implemented, PTS have the potential to capture more accurate and more detailed information compared with paper forms. A significant amount of records obtained by paper forms lacks any time or diagnosis information. CONCLUSIONS: A set of best practices for tracking applications and data collection at marathons is proposed to improve accuracy based on CMPTS implementations from 2012 to 2013. Developing and conforming to standards for data collection at marathons and other mass-gathering events could improve data sets created from PTS, which can be used to improve operational decisions at such events and can provide the foundation for prediction models for enhancing planning and preparedness.

Acute incident rapid response at a mass-gathering event through comprehensive planning systems: a case report from the 2013 Shamrock Shuffle.

Planning and execution of mass-gathering events involves various challenges. In this case report, the Chicago Model (CM), which was designed to organize and operate such events and to maintain the health and wellbeing of both runners and the public in a more effective way, is described. The Chicago Model also was designed to prepare for unexpected incidents, including disasters, during the marathon event. The model has been used successfully in the planning and execution stages of the Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle and the Bank of America Chicago Marathon since 2008. The key components of the CM are organizational structure, information systems, and communication. This case report describes how the organizers at the 2013 Shamrock Shuffle used the key components of the CM approach in order to respond to an acute incident caused by a man who was threatening to jump off the State Street Bridge. The course route was changed to accommodate this unexpected event, while maintaining access to key health care facilities. The lessons learned from the incident are presented and further improvements to the existing model are proposed.