Gala Reminders for Swimmers
At the start of a race:
Wait for referee to signal you should stand on the block/get into the water (long whistle)
Position your feet and hands but do not tense for the start
‘Take your marks’ – quickly tense for the start
<hooter> – GO!
At the end of the race:
Do not get out until the referee indicates you can leave the pool.
Ask the timekeeper for your time. Did you beat your personal best (PB)? Did you get your next speed award?
During the race:
Do not put your feet to the floor, or touch the side / lane ropes.
Relay Takeovers:
The swimmer before you must touch the wall before your feet leave the block. If you dive too early, the team will be disqualified.
Breast Stroke
Touch with two hands.
Touch the wall with two hands before turning (do not tumble).
On start / turn: One pull and one kick underwater (no butterfly kick or front crawl kick).
Butterfly
Touch with two hands.
Touch the wall with two hands before turning (do not tumble).
On start / turn: Butterfly / dolphin kick under the water (no front crawl kick).
Backstroke
Start in the water, facing the block.
Stay on your back throughout the race (unless you are doing a backstroke tumble turn).
At the end of the race, touch the wall while still on your back.
Freestyle
Anything goes… BUT you’ll go faster if you don’t breathe unless you have to!
Poolside Reminders
Listen to the whips.
Find out the name of our swimmer in each race and cheer them on!!
Try to remember your Personal Best (PB) for your usual stroke, so that you can aim to beat it on the night.