Lane Timer Instructions

Lane Time Instructions

Before the start of each heat:
  • Check to make sure that the swimmer’s name or relay team’s name matches what is listed on the lane card. (This should be done while the previous heat is swimming.) If there is a problem, get the attention of the starter.
  • If the swimmer started at the far end of the pool (such as a 25 yard race), check the swimmer’s name when they exit the water.
  • Make sure that the Lane number on the card matches the lane you’re timing. Correct it on the card if necessary.

At the start:
  • Make sure your watch is reset to zero.
  • Take a position behind the blocks (to avoid distracting the swimmers) but in a position where you can see the starting device.
  • The starter will give the command “Step up” to signal the swimmers up on the blocks. For backstroke, the starter will give the command “In the water” to signal the swimmers into the water.
  • After the swimmers are up on the blocks (or in the water for backstroke events), the starter will give the command “Take your mark”. This is the last command before the starting signal.
  • Start your watch on the flash of the strobe. If you miss the flash, start your watch on the sound of the starting device.
  • Make sure your watch is running and counting up from zero. If there is a problem, hold the watch in your hand over your head and look for a backup timer who will exchange their watch for yours.
  • Know the length of the event and keep a careful count of the number of lengths swum in order to stop your watch at the correct time.
  • If there’s no swimmer in your lane start your watch anyway – you’re now an extra backup timer.
At the finish:
  • Stand directly over the edge of the pool and look straight down to get a full view of the swimmer and end wall.
  • Stop the watch when any part of the swimmer touches the end wall. This touch may occur under the water. (Stop on ANY touch – the Stroke and Turn Officials will judge whether the touch was legal.)
  • Record BOTH watch times on the lane card exactly as they appear on the watch (to the hundredth of a second). Do not reset the watch until all times are recorded.
  • If the swimmer doesn’t finish the heat for some reason, write DNF on the card.
  • Swimmers must stay in the water until all lanes have finished (except for the first three swimmers of a relay). Help the swimmer out of the pool, if necessary.
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