TIMERS’ BRIEFING

Timing is the most important job here at a meet! The meets will use an automatic timing system (touchpads), semi-automatic (push buttons) and tertiary timing (watches).

Two or three Timers per lane will be assigned, depending on circumstances. Everyone will have a stopwatch. One Timer per lane is designated as the Head Lane Timer. In a dual meet, this should be a person from the same team of the team that is assigned to the lane. One Timer per lane will also have a push button in addition to the watch.

HEAD LANE TIMER:

• Head Lane Timer should have a clipboard and pencil/pen
• Head Lane Timer should only be responsible for one watch – no push button
• Record all watch times on the provided heat sheet or provide the times to the Runner after each heat

ALL WATCH TIMERS:

• Start watch on the strobe light. Find the strobe now. If you can't see the strobe, move. If you still can't see the strobe, have it moved!
• Check the watch after start, be sure it is running.
• Stop watch when any part of the swimmer touches wall or pad at the finish. Make sure you can see the finish. Don't worry if the touch legal or not.
• Clear watch after time is recorded.
• If watch malfunctions or wasn't started properly, raise hand and signal Backup Timer. S/he has started watches available.

ALL PUSH BUTTON TIMERS:

• Do NOT push the button at the start.
• Push button when any part of the swimmer touches wall or pad finish

GENERAL:

• At the finish, stand directly at the edge of the pool. Directly view the swimmer's finish. You may get wet; sorry. Watch for underwater touches.
• Do not anticipate the finish.
• Push both watch and electronic buttons with index finger if possible. Do not make exaggerated motions; just push the button(s) at the right time.
• Stay back behind the blocks, except at the end of the race. Don’t block the Officials from seeing swimmers’ turns.
• Help keep all swimmers except the starting swimmer behind the blocks and quiet

It's very important that you take your responsibility seriously. The swimmers work hard and are giving it their best shot. They deserve the same in return.