As the Paralympic Games in Paris come to a close, Omega, the Official Timekeeper, reflects on another successful edition filled with outstanding performances and technological precision. For nearly two weeks, Omega measured every moment of competition, continuing its long-standing tradition of timekeeping excellence at the Paralympic Games since 1992.
Event Overview
This year, Omega timed 549 events across 22 different sports, employing 240 timekeepers, 150 tonnes of equipment, and 300 trained volunteers to ensure accuracy at every stage. The Swiss brand utilized much of the same technology deployed during the Olympic Games, held just a month earlier. Key equipment included electronic starting pistols, quantum timers, and swimming touchpads.
In addition, Omega introduced specialized systems designed for Paralympic athletes. These innovations included Starting Lights for deaf competitors, Extra Photocell beams in wheelchair racing, and Factorized Timing, which allows athletes from different disability classifications to compete on a level playing field.
Notable Performances by Omega Ambassadors
Omega’s timing expertise was crucial in documenting several memorable gold medal performances, including those of the brand’s own sporting ambassadors:
- Hannah Cockroft (Great Britain): Cockroft secured gold in the Women’s T34 100m and 800m events, adding to her illustrious Paralympic career with her 8th and 9th gold medals.
- Alexis Hanquinquant (France): Hanquinquant triumphed in the Men’s PTS4 Paratriathlon, earning back-to-back victories following his win at Tokyo 2020.
- Oksana Masters (USA): Masters extended her medal tally with victories in the Women’s H4-5 Individual Time Trial and the H5 Road Race, bringing her total Paralympic medal count to 19.
- Jessica Long (USA): Long claimed gold in the Women’s S8 100m Butterfly and S8 400m Freestyle, increasing her gold medal count to 18.
- Marcel Hug (Switzerland): Hug won the Men’s T54 Marathon, his fourth medal of the Games, following two silver and one bronze in earlier races.
Looking Ahead
Omega’s role as Official Timekeeper will continue for future Paralympic Games, with commitments stretching through to 2032 in Brisbane. Before then, Omega will provide its expertise at Milano-Cortina 2026, Los Angeles 2028, and the French Alps 2030.
Conclusion
Omega’s continued dedication to precision timekeeping at the Paralympic Games demonstrates the brand’s commitment to sports and technological innovation. As the countdown to future events begins, Omega remains at the forefront of ensuring each moment is measured with unparalleled accuracy. Visit the Omega website for more details on its timekeeping legacy.
