An AI Tool That Spots Potential Olympians
The innovative product appeared at the Paris 2024 Olympics where attendees could measure their scores in different tests and compare their data to gold medalists of the past.
A new AI-powered talent spotting system is turning heads at the Paris 2024 Olympics, as fans get a taste of what might be the future of identifying athletic potential. Developed with the ambition to pinpoint the Olympians of tomorrow, this innovative technology combines advanced sport science with accessibility, aiming to reach even the most remote parts of the globe. For participants, it’s more than just a high-tech evaluation; it’s a fun experience.
The AI-powered system consists of five tests including swiping at flashing infrared sensors and dashing down a track monitored by cameras. They are designed to measure a participant’s power, agility, endurance, and other key athletic traits. Once the data is collected, it’s analyzed and compared with that of professional and Olympic athletes, helping to suggest which sports the participants may be most suited for.
Sarah Vickers, head of Intel’s Olympic and Paralympic Program, explains that the system leverages computer vision and historical data to allow individuals to see how they measure up against elite athletes. After completing the tests, participants are given insights into which of ten sports they might excel in. Importantly, Intel assures that all data collected is deleted after the assessment is completed.
Beyond its presence at the Olympics, the AI system’s potential for broader application is significant. A more portable version of the technology, which can be used with just a mobile device or tablet, has already been tested in Senegal. In partnership with the country’s National Olympic Committee, the system assessed over 1,000 children across five villages, identifying 48 with notable athletic potential and one with exceptional promise. These children have been offered spots in sports programs to develop their talents further.
The ability to assess athletic potential with just a camera and basic computing power opens doors to regions previously inaccessible with traditional, bulkier equipment. This system offers the promise of future talent identification. However, it also has limitations, particularly for sports that require a high level of technical skill or endurance, where more complex assessments are necessary.
Despite these limitations, there is value in the AI system for initial talent scouting, especially in areas without access to high-tech facilities. While this technology represents just one piece of the larger talent identification puzzle, its portability and accessibility could play a crucial role in discovering future sports stars in the years to come.