<P> With security after the September 11 attacks on the US becoming prevalent , causing issues with starting pistols , a trend developed to use electronic starting systems that do not use pistols , but use a `` dummy '' prop pistol which can not function as a firearm that is wired to the timing system . When the starter presses the button , they emit a signal to play a simulated gunshot that is broadcast to loudspeakers behind each lane , show a flash , emit simulated smoke , and start the timing clock . Many venues have switched to the new format . Beyond the security concerns , it has also been observed that even with the use of loudspeakers , some competitors still wait for the actual sound of the gun to reach them , and since the new all - electronic starting pistols have no such problems , they became the official way of starting games at the 2012 Summer Olympics . </P>
<P> With security after the September 11 attacks on the US becoming prevalent , causing issues with starting pistols , a trend developed to use electronic starting systems that do not use pistols , but use a `` dummy '' prop pistol which can not function as a firearm that is wired to the timing system . When the starter presses the button , they emit a signal to play a simulated gunshot that is broadcast to loudspeakers behind each lane , show a flash , emit simulated smoke , and start the timing clock . Many venues have switched to the new format . Beyond the security concerns , it has also been observed that even with the use of loudspeakers , some competitors still wait for the actual sound of the gun to reach them , and since the new all - electronic starting pistols have no such problems , they became the official way of starting games at the 2012 Summer Olympics . </P>
who fires the gun at the start of a race
who fires the gun at the start of a race
the starter
the starter