http://www.nytimes.com/2007/11/07/sports/othersports/07glitch.html?ref=sports

Glitch at Start Muddles Times

Some of the 38,676 people who completed the New York City Marathon on Sunday were given incorrect finishing times, possibly affecting their attempts to qualify for the Boston Marathon.

The New York Road Runners, which organized the race, sent e-mail messages to some participants yesterday saying that “there was a technical problem that caused your start time to not be recorded when you crossed the starting line.”

etc, etc, etc....

Additional coverage, with more specifics as to the technical issues, in USA Today:

http://www.usatoday.com/sports/olympics/2007-11-07-2483336731_x.htm

I have lost a number of events "Chip Timing" (RFID) when organizers have no clue what they are buying.
Oh well, This will be fun to share.
Jenna