Your swimmer may be entered in several events, so it is important for them to be able to keep track of which events, heats, and lanes they will be in. The way we do this is to write their event number, heat number, lane number, and the stroke/distance on their forearm or hand.

Referring to your heat sheet (not the psych sheet), and using a permanent marker (such as a Sharpie®) in a dark color, create a simple table. Across the top, write “E” “H” and “L” for event, heat, lane. Then, fill in the details.

It is best to write on your swimmer’s arm and allow it to thoroughly dry prior to applying any sunscreen. For example, the swimmer in the image above is entered in three events. In Event 6, the 50 freestyle, he will be in heat 4, lane 4. For relays, you can also indicate which leg your athlete will be swimming (i.e. “100 Fr Relay #2)