A simulation of the finish-line system of a major running race

The finish-line system of a major road race is investigated by means of a simulation model, in an attempt to help race management identify conditions that may lead to congestion of runners at this point. Based on the results of the model, race management was presented with a simple tool which could be used in situ to analyse a given situation, identify if congestion was likely to occur, and then consider corrective action.