RUFUS: Remote Supporter Feedback for Long-Distance Runners

This paper explores remote cheering during amateur races through a formative design inquiry. Friends and family of advanced amateur runners are part of their running experience. Runners rely on support during the race day and it is usually provided in the form of co-located cheers. RUFUS -- a prototype remote ambient runner support system -- was developed. The system enables supporters to send three types of signals to runners during a race and runners can send signals back to supporters. Input from supporters is sent through a webpage and received by runners through a device designed to lower distraction. An in situ study was conducted to evaluate the prototype during an organized race. Results show that two-way communication between runners and supporters was achieved. We also found that our system reflected varying user needs correctly. Runners and supporters reported increased motivation and enhanced race experience through feeling connected.