TGCRBNW: A Dataset for Runner Bib Number Detection (and Recognition) in the Wild

Racing bib number (RBN) detection and recognition is a specific problem related to text recognition in natural scenes. In this paper, we present a novel dataset created after registering participants in a real ultrarunning competition which comprises a wide range of acquisition conditions in five different recording points, including nightlight and daylight. The dataset contains more than 3K samples of over 400 different individuals. The aim is to provide an “in the wild” benchmark for both RBN detection and recognition problems. To illustrate the present difficulties, the dataset is evaluated for RBN detection using different Faster R-CNN specific detection models, filtering its output with heuristics based on body detection to improve the overall detection performance. Initial results are promising, but there is still significant room for improvement. And detection is just the first step to accomplish “in the wild” RBN recognition.