Swim

400-yard snake swim

What is a Snake Swim?

A snake swim involves swimmers entering the pool from the same starting lane, with a 20-second interval between each racer. Participants swim the full length of the lane, turn at the wall, and swim back down the same lane, completing one lap (50 yards).

After finishing a lap, swimmers transition under the lane line into the next lane and repeat the process. This pattern continues until they complete the entire 400-yard swim, equivalent to 16 lengths or 8 laps.

Why Choose a Snake Swim Format?

The snake swim format offers several advantages:

• Fewer Volunteers Required: This reduces the number of people in the pool area, promoting a safer and more organized event.
• Improved Racer Experience: Participants appreciate the predictability of knowing their exact start times and shorter wait periods on deck. Many racers have described the snake swim as “less stressful” and highly efficient.

Since 2021, GNT has utilized this format, and it has consistently received positive feedback from participants.

Race Day Swimming Information

When Will I Swim?

Bib numbers will be posted on the GNT website at least two weeks before race day. On event day, electronic boards at the pool will display which numbers should be on deck and in line.

Locker Room & Personal Items

• Lockers are available in the high school gym building (right of the pool) from 6:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on race day.
• You may leave personal belongings in the locker room, but it is at your own risk—use a lock for security.
• GNT is not responsible for lost, stolen, or left-behind items.
• Any items left after 4:00 p.m. must be retrieved from Bartlett High School.

Arriving at the Pool

• Enter through the main pool doors, closest to T1.
• You may wait in the spectator area upstairs or in the hallway near the entrance until your bib number appears on the electronic board.
• Volunteers will guide you when it’s time to line up.

Warming Up & Entering the Pool

• You may warm up in the center bulkhead before your start.
• Follow volunteer instructions to line up in bib order.
• If you are seeded or purchased a lane, pick up a lap counting card upon entering.

Swim Timing

• Your official swim time begins when you push off the pool wall and the timing device activates.
• Your swim time ends when you exit the pool and cross the timing mat leading into the locker room.

Bringing Gear to the Pool Deck

• Since the snake swim requires entering and exiting from different ends, use the locker room for storage.
• Medical items (e.g., inhalers, eyeglasses, prosthetics) can be placed on a designated table at the pool entrance.
• Be sure to take all personal items with you when entering the locker room.

Changing & Showering After the Swim

• Showers are NOT allowed during transition from swim to bike.
• You may change clothes in the locker room, but you must take all gear with you when leaving.
• Items left behind will be considered “abandonment of gear” and could result in a time penalty.
• Volunteers will guide you if you need to enter the locker room.

Knowing Your 400-Yard Swim Time

• An accurate estimated swim time is crucial for a smooth race flow.
• A 400-yard swim = 8 laps (down and back) or 16 lengths.
• If you need to update your swim time, you may do so through RunSignUp until April 9, 2025

Lap Counters for Seeded & Lane-Purchased Racers

• Seeded racers and those who purchased a lane will have a lap counter.
• Lap counters help verify your swim distance in case of any miscount.

You are ultimately responsible for tracking your own laps—ensure you complete the full 8 laps (16 lengths).