Definition: number that is prominently written in semi-permanent black ink or with temporary tattos on the upper arms, shoulder blades and wrists of the swimmer for identification purposes. These numbers are used to monitor the swimmer's progress, announce the swimmer's position to the crowd and media and inform swimmers who are committing rule infractions during the race. (noun)
Also Known As: body markings, competitor numbers
Examples:
The race officials write the race numbers on the swimmer's shoulders 30 minutes before the start of the race.
