Hub Fins Timing Responsibilities

At every meet, we ask that our Hub Fins parents volunteer to time.

If we receive our timing responsibilities in advance, we will send out a sign-up sheet. However, if a sign-up is not available, please be prepared to time when needed.

Below are instructions for lane timers to help you understand your role and responsibilities.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR LANE TIMERS

  1. The Chief Timer will assign each timer to a specific lane.

  2. Timing is one of the most important positions at the meet. Your accuracy helps determine each swimmer’s official time.

  3. Meets typically require one or two timers per lane, depending on the format.

  4. Familiarize yourself with the stopwatch you will be using. Know which buttons start, stop, and reset the watch.

  5. Confirm each swimmer’s name before the race—ideally by asking the swimmer directly. For relay events, verify the team and the order in which swimmers will compete.

  6. Before the race begins, sit or stand far enough back so you do not distract the starter or swimmers.

  7. At the start, focus on the starting device (strobe light or gun flash) and start your watch based on that signal rather than the sound.

  8. Once the heat begins, immediately check that your watch is running. If it is not, or if you started it late, raise your hand with your watch visible to signal the Chief Timer.

  9. Be at the edge of the pool at the finish. Look straight down over the forward edge to see an underwater touch—expect to get wet! Stop your watch as soon as any part of the swimmer’s body touches the wall. You are not responsible for judging whether the finish was legal.

  10. Push the plunger to stop the automatic timing system when the swimmer touches the wall.

  11. Record all times to the hundredths of a second (two decimal places) in the correct order for each heat. If no swimmer is in the lane, mark "No Swimmer" as N/S.

  12. Stay focused on your duties, especially at the start and finish of each race.

  13. Most importantly, cheer on the swimmers and have fun! This is the best seat in the house—enjoy it!