Live tracking that tells families when their runner passes a checkpoint

RaceJoy is a good match: family can follow a runner and get progress alerts at race timing points. Both runner and spectators may need the app, and the race needs to support RaceJoy. (racejoy.net)

If you mean a specific race, check its official app or tracking page first—checkpoint alerts depend on the event’s setup. Are you looking for an app to use, or a service to offer for a race?

Several existing services do this. Which one fits depends on whether the race has timing mats on the course and whether the runner carries a phone.

Timing-based alerts (no phone needed by the runner): Many races send texts when a runner crosses a timing mat. For example, Bayshore Marathon sends text or email alerts from timing equipment and says runners don't need to carry a phone. The number of alerts varies per course. RunSignup's text alerts also work for split notifications, but only if the race has timing mats. People tracking a participant can get those notifications as well. Athlinks is another option. At Big Sugar Gravel, families sign up through Athlinks for split texts, and the race warns that there may be lag time on SMS alerts based on cell signal availability.

Cheaper checkpoints without mats: RunSignup's new photo-based timing, announced August 2026, uses phones or tablets at course points to create splits. The technology runs on RunSignup's free RaceDay Mobile app, which captures photos at designated points on the course. Those reads can feed text alerts and RaceJoy tracking. The company says this suits remote trail and ultra events.

GPS apps (runner carries a phone):

• LiveTrail sends a notification each time a followed runner crosses a checkpoint. Reviews on the app store also report outages during a 100-mile event, so test it before race day.
• RaceJoy shows live location on a map and can send progress alerts. Participants must opt in, and running GPS in the background can dramatically decrease battery life.
• Race With Me and ShareMyRun share live GPS maps with family. Race With Me lets you switch on the live tracker from one hour before the race, and it starts and stops automatically at the finish.

Big-race example: For the NYC Marathon on November 1, the NYRR app lets runners turn on a share link, and supporters can set up push notifications that alert them when their runner reaches certain milestones, such as crossing the start line or hitting the halfway point.

Practical notes:

• Families usually need to sign up or enter the runner's bib number ahead of time, and runners often need to enable sharing.
• Timing-based alerts are reliable only where the race has mats. GPS depends on the runner's phone and battery.
• Coverage on remote courses can delay alerts, so pairing an app with a satellite messenger is a common backup.

If you meant you're building a product like this rather than looking for one, tell me and I can compare how these services handle the data and alerts, or what a basic design would need.

To keep families and friends updated when a runner passes a checkpoint, there are two primary methods: official race tracking (provided by the event) and personal GPS tracking (using the runner's phone or watch).

1. Official Race Tracking (Best for Large Events)

Most major marathons and organized races use integrated timing systems. This is generally the most reliable method because it does not require the runner to carry a phone.

• How it works: Runners wear a timing chip (usually attached to their bib or shoe). As they pass over timing mats at the start, finish, and intermediate checkpoints, the system automatically records their time and updates the race's official website or app.
• How to use it:
  • Visit the official race website and look for a "Live Tracking," "Results," or "App" link.
  • Many events use platforms like RTRT.me, RaceJoy, or LiveTrail.
  • These platforms often allow you to search by bib number or name and sign up for push notifications or SMS alerts when the runner crosses specific checkpoints.

2. Personal GPS Tracking (Best for Smaller Events or Training)

If the race does not provide official tracking, or if you want to track a runner during a personal challenge or training run, you can use GPS-based apps.

• How it works: The runner shares a live link from their phone or watch. Spectators open the link to view a "moving dot" on a map in real-time.
• Popular Apps:
  • RaceJoy: Highly popular for races; it offers real-time GPS tracking, automated progress alerts at every mile, and the ability to send audio or text cheers.
  • Strava (Beacon): A common tool that sends a live link to selected contacts, showing the runner's real-time position.
  • Garmin LiveTrack: If the runner uses a Garmin watch, they can enable LiveTrack to email or message a link to family members.
  • OpenRunner / ShareMyRun: Useful for sharing progress on custom routes or long-distance outdoor adventures.

Summary Comparison

Recommendation: Before the race, check the event's website to see if they have an official tracking app. If they don't, have your runner set up RaceJoy or Strava Beacon so you can follow their progress and receive notifications as they move along the course.

If you’re looking for a service, RaceJoy and RTRT.me offer the feature: family members can follow a runner and receive alerts when they pass race checkpoints. RaceJoy’s bib-tag alerts can work without the runner carrying a phone, if the event supports them; live GPS tracking does require the runner’s phone. ⁴⁶ RTRT.me offers app, web, or email notifications for checkpoint updates at participating events. ³

Availability and checkpoint locations depend on the race, so check the event’s official tracking page and have family follow the runner there before race day.