Fans at the Olympics are trying out new AI technology that aims to find future Olympic champions. This system, which is currently available near the Olympic Stadium in Paris, tests participants’ abilities in activities like running and jumping. The results are compared with data from professional athletes to suggest which sports they might excel in.
For example, two young brothers from Japan took part in the tests, with one being identified as a potential sprinter, though he prefers football and tennis.
The AI also recommended sports to two former university athletes, but the results were surprising—one was suggested to try rugby, and the other basketball, even though he had never played before.
A portable version of this AI system is being used in remote areas, like Senegal, to spot athletic talent in children who otherwise wouldn’t have access to high-tech sports science. The goal is to give opportunities to those with potential, even in hard-to-reach places.
However, experts like Prof. John Brewer caution that while the AI can help identify basic talents like speed and agility, it might not be as effective for more technical sports or endurance-based events. Still, the system is seen as a valuable tool for early talent spotting.
This innovative approach, which could change how we find future sports stars, is part of Intel’s efforts at the Olympics.
Credit to BBC for the detailed insights on this technology.
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cmj2jkppvx3o