Tech that changed sport

Posted by Michael Sawh on Mon 22 Jun 2009

Tantrum appeasing tech

Wimbledon's roof is set to roll out over Centre Court at SW19 for the first time ever, and with this leap forward in technology for British tennis, we're waving goodby to rain delays, Cliff Richard songs a small part of the character of the All England Club.

But is this a step forward for sport or simply and intrusion of technology into our beloved games? All sports, even the simplest, are increasingly being forced to evolve.

We've come a long way since the line and pistol days of on your marks, get set, go in athletics, from bikes with drop handlebars in the Tour De France and from men swimming in Speedos in the Olympics.

While those resistant to change often fiercely oppose progress as interference, here at T3 we can see how a good bit of gadgetry can improve our beautiful games.

We got the chance to see the Wimbledon roof in action and we're pretty sure it's a step forward that will eventually develop its own unique place in the hearts of tennis fans. It actually adds character rather than removing it.

But is that the same of all tech advancement in sports? Do you hanker for the days of wooden racquets? Are you anit goal line technology? Or has Hawk Eye made you love cricket even more?

Take a look through our list of tech that changed sport and tell us which ones you think were for the better and which have ruined your favourite games.

Plus: See the gadgets that didn't make it, in our walk through the Tech they banned from sport.

( Keith Prowse is the official hospitality provider to The Championships - Wimbledon. Get more info on the luxury Skyview hospitality packages at Wimbledon and book your place at other major sporting events.)

Life-changing gadgets