Counters in Distance Freestyle

SwimGPT

TL;DR: In long-distance freestyle races (500y/1000y/1650y or 800m/1500m), swimmers may have one counter to help track laps:

Verbal counter (calls lengths/times)
Visual counter (flip board signs)
Counters must be at the turn end (opposite the start)
Boards may dip in water but can’t touch or interfere
Swimmer is always responsible for finishing the full distance, even if counter errs

How It Works

Who can have a counter? Swimmers in the 500/1000/1650 yard or 800/1500 meter free (and other long-distance pool events per 102.1.4).
How many? One counter per swimmer. 🧑‍🤝‍🧑
Types of counters:
- Verbal — calls lengths and may give intermediate times (using a watch).
- Visual — uses numbered flip boards/signs to show lengths.
Where do they stand?
- Verbal: at the end opposite the start (turn end).
- Visual: at the turn end or along the sides past halfway toward that end.
- Visual boards may be dipped in the water at the lane’s end if they don’t aid, interfere, or pose a safety risk (referee’s judgment).
Counting direction: Either ascending (1, 2, 3…) or descending (e.g., 66, 65, 64…). 🔄
Bottom line: Even with an official or counter mistake, the swimmer must complete the prescribed distance.

Start End (blocks) ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ Turn End (counters here)
Visual counters can also stand on the side deck beyond the halfway mark toward the turn end.

Emma is swimming the 1650 free. Her teammate:

Stands at the turn end with a flip board.
Flips the card every 50 to the next number (they agreed on descending).
Dips the board briefly into the water at the end of Emma’s lane so she can see it clearly without contact or obstruction.

Meanwhile, Jacob prefers a verbal counter calling out “500… 550… 600!” plus split times — also legal.

One counter per swimmer (verbal or visual). Not both.
Verbal at the turn end only.
Visual may be at the turn end or sides (after halfway), and may be lowered into the water without aiding.
No interference: counters can’t touch swimmers, block lanes, or create hazards. 🛑
Counters help, but the swimmer must know their race plan and finish the full distance — even if the count is off.

✅ Choose someone reliable who is comfortable with counting and your preferred up/down method.
✅ Agree on signals: large, high-contrast numbers; quick dips; simple verbal cues.
✅ Practice with counters in broken 500s/1000s to refine sightlines and timing.
❌ Don’t crowd the lane end: keep equipment and body clear of the wall and adjacent lanes.
✅ Have a backup plan: know your own target splits and stroke counts per 50.