Arm Markings

EVENT - HEAT - LANE

The first number represents the EVENT number (see event order below). The second number represents the HEAT number. Some events may have 2 or more heats (races) to accommodate more swimmers. The third number represents the LANE number.

The number in parenthesis after the relay name represents the number swimmer your child is in that relay's order (1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th)

EXAMPLE:  3 - 1 - 4 MED RLY (1)

This swimmer is swimming the 3rd Event (7-8 Girls Medley Relay), Heat 1, Lane 4. She will be the 1st swimmer in the relay (backstroke).

What are the Medley Relay and IM stroke orders?

MEDLEY RELAY = Each of the four relay swimmers swims one stroke. The relay goes in the following order: Backstroke, Breaststroke, Butterfly then Freestyle.

IM = Individual Medley. One swimmer swims 4 laps in the following order: Butterfly, Backstroke, Breaststroke then Freestyle.

Swim Meet Event Order

Events 1-2……..6 & Under Freestyle Relays

Events 3-12.......Medley Relays

Events 13-24.....Freestyle

Events 25-34.....Long Freestyle

Events 35-46.....Backstroke

Events 47-56.....IM (Individual Medley)

Events 57-66….Breaststroke

Events 67-76.....Butterfly

Events 77-86.....Freestyle Relays

Special Notes

The 6 & under age group only swims 3 events: Freestyle Relay, Freestyle & Backstroke.

In general, each swimmer is allowed to swim a maximum of 4 Events pursuant to ASA rules – 2 individual races and 2 relays.  *Since relays are in groups of 4, not every child will get to participate in a relay each week.* In special circumstances as permitted by ASA rules, swimmers may swim 3 or more individual races only if there are insufficient swimmers in the age group for each event.

Sometimes a swimmer may be pulled up to “fill in” a relay position in an older age group in order to make another foursome. Swimmers can be moved up, but not down an age group.

Packing for a Swim Meet (label items with your name)

Team Swim Suit (and a backup suit in case of a last minute tear)

Team Swim Cap

Goggles – preferably two pairs

Towels – Bring at least two - one to sit on and at least one for drying off

Warm dry clothes

Water bottles or other hydrating drinks

Games, books or other activities to keep busy under the bullpen tent

Optional: green nail polish, body markers, other items to show your Waves Spirit!

SUMMER SWIMMING IS FUN! Although we compete as a team, your child’s main goal is to improve his/her time each week. Congratulate your child for the effort made more than who won what place in the race.