A time trial is a formal race where a swimmer competes against the clock rather than other people. These are often held at the end of a meet for athletes who just missed a qualifying standard and want one last chance. Even if only one person is in the pool, official timers and judges must be present for the time to count. A swimmer enters a time trial to try and shave off half a second from their best time. It is a high-pressure environment because the athlete lacks the energy of a full heat of competitors. Successful time trials can earn a swimmer a spot in a championship meet they previously missed.
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