Double Laning for Distance Events

This information appeared in the B.C.Swim Officials Association Newsletter and is presented here with the permission of the author, Paul Jenkins

For those of you who double up on the 800/1500 meter events, I offer the following advice: If possible, do not double up the fastest heat, run it first, then alternate between the 800 and the 1500. When doubling, run your fastest swimmers first to the right of the lane from the starting end, then fifteen meters later make your second start to the left. Always brief your swimmers to ensure there is no confusion. Never start the second group if the first group is heading for the start end - you are asking for a head on collision. You will have to accept a minor false start on the second start, but if you start with the first swimmers under the false start rope you still have time for a recall if it is a long course meet, It is important that all swimmers are expected to swim front crawl as they can, of course, legally swim any stroke.