How Charm City Run Integrates RunSignup Race and Ticketing Technology Across Timing and Training

Introduction

The Team Behind the Transformation

The successful implementation of these technologies stems from a collaborative team approach:

• Billy Ornold, who started at Charm City Run in 2011, is Charm City Run’s Leader Timer and manages nearly all RunSignup platform integrations for race day.
• Kira Voit, Director of Events Marketing and Communications, joined in 2023 and ensures each event’s voice, tone, and branding are cohesive and memorable.
• Natalie Ferguson, Director of Training, joined in October with decades of experience in sports marketing and quickly recognized the opportunity to modernize Charm City Run’s training programs with TicketSignup.

We sat down with Billy, Kira, and Natalie to learn how they’ve maximized RunSignup’s ecosystem—from packet pickup to participant waivers to real-time training dashboards.

Enhancing Race Operations with RaceDay Tools

A Fully Integrated Race Day Experience

Charm City Run utilizes nearly the full suite of RaceDay tools available through RunSignup. These tools have revolutionized how they manage logistics and participant communication for race day.

• The CheckIn App has replaced paper-based processes, simplifying bib pickup and significantly reducing manual errors. Billy described it as a “game-changer” that fundamentally changed their pre-race workflow.
• RaceJoy, a live tracking and participant engagement tool, was introduced at their Independence Day race. The team customized it with audio messages, branded content, and bib integration—finding it easy to set up and effective for both organizers and participants. Future uses include relays and other high-engagement events.
• RaceDay Scoring and live result notifications allow the timing team to deliver immediate results, creating a smooth and professional experience for runners. Charm City Run made the transition early and has fully embraced the real-time capabilities.
• The mobile timing app has become a valuable option for lower-budget or less complex events. It provides flexibility without sacrificing accuracy or quality.

In addition to the tools themselves, the team greatly values RunSignup’s educational content—such as regular blog posts and Timer Tip Tuesday webinar sessions—which help them stay up to date on the latest features and best practices.

Expanding Use of TicketSignup Across Events

From Local Events to High-Volume Solutions

Charm City Run expanded their use of TicketSignup beyond training programs to support a wide range of local activations and operational needs.

For example, community-facing events such as course preview runs or birthday celebrations—like the 50th anniversary of the MedStar Health Baltimore Women’s Classic presented by New Balance—use TicketSignup to collect attendee information, plan catering, and manage packet pickup volumes.

One standout use case was the Maryland Cross Country Invitational, which hosted more than 2,800 high school athletes. The invitational takes place on a conserved land, so parking had to be moved offsite, and the team quickly built a TicketSignup page to manage paid parking access for spectators. The setup was simple and effective for both spectators and Charm City Run staff, illustrating TicketSignup’s adaptability under pressure.

Revolutionizing Training Program Management

The Core Success Story

The most significant transformation has occurred in the training division, where TicketSignup has enabled a complete overhaul of participant registration, coach communication, and data management.

Before adopting TicketSignup, trainee registrations came through multiple disconnected channels. In some cases, Natalie received participant information a day late via spreadsheets that had to be manually copied and distributed to over 50 coaches. The system was prone to human error, delays, and data loss.

Since implementing TicketSignup, the training team has seen immediate improvements:

• Real-time registration dashboards allow coaches to see who has signed up—even if they register the morning of a session.
• Digital waivers have replaced outdated hard-copy processes, reducing risk and streamlining record-keeping.
• Custom questions and data collection give coaches the information they need to plan effectively, such as pace groups, experience level, or special considerations.
• Integrated email tools simplify communication and eliminate the need for separate mailing systems.
• Automated confirmation emails give participants a polished experience that reflects the professionalism of the program.

Natalie noted that this kind of technology would have saved her countless hours earlier in her career—and now it’s available as a complete, out-of-the-box solution.

Participant and Coach Response

The overall feedback has been very positive. Coaches appreciate the visibility and ease of access, and most trainees are comfortable registering online. While a few still prefer in-person signups, the shift to digital has helped reduce manual work and allowed the team to focus on quality programming.

Creative and Emerging Uses of the Platform

The team continues to explore new ways to apply TicketSignup beyond registration:

• Standalone digital waivers are used even for legacy programs not yet moved to online registration.
• Registration flexibility has been enabled through voucher pools, allowing customers to purchase and redeem training packages or event entries around holidays.
• Weekly add-ons or incremental sessions can be easily added, without the need for prorating or complex payment setups.

These flexible tools support the team’s desire to keep everything in one platform—simplifying backend processes while enhancing participant-facing experiences.

Looking Toward the Future

Charm City Run is enthusiastic about what’s next. Tools like series scoring and predictive pace modeling for live tracking are on their radar for expanding competitive offerings. Their nonprofit arm, Live. Give. Run. is also exploring ways to further integrate donations with training programs and events through TicketSignup.

Advice for Other Event Organizers and Timers

Billy encourages others in the race industry to give these tools a try, even if their current system “isn’t broken.”

“It’s an easy transition, and if you’re already using RunSignup, the learning curve is minimal. Once you realize how many tools are included—like free email—it becomes a no-brainer.”

He also emphasized the importance of staying current: races that continue to operate the way they did a decade ago risk falling behind in efficiency, professionalism, and participant satisfaction.

Conclusion

Charm City Run is a clear example of how embracing modern technology can benefit every aspect of an organization—from race day timing to training program operations. Their creative use of RunSignup and TicketSignup has transformed the way they manage participants, communicate with staff, and engage with their community.

As Charm City Run continues to evolve and expand their offerings, their story demonstrates the power of fully integrated technology in creating a seamless and impactful experience for runners, volunteers, and coaches alike.