The best swimmer in a swimming competition is typically given the middle lane , often lane number 4 in an 8-lane pool. This lane assignment is based on their qualifying times, with the fastest qualifying swimmer placed in the center lane. The reason behind this is that the middle lanes are considered to have the least water turbulence and wake interference from other swimmers, providing an advantage with smoother water to swim through. The lanes then fill out from there with the second and third fastest swimmers typically placed in lanes 5 and 3, respectively. Middle lanes reduce the impact of waves from other swimmers and pool walls, allowing the best swimmers to achieve their best times. This lane arrangement also allows swimmers in the middle lanes a better sense of their competition during the race. The outer lanes, like lanes 1 and 8, are generally considered less favorable due to increased wave disturbances and reflections from walls. In summary, the fastest qualifier is given lane 4 (or the middle lane) because it offers competitive and physical advantages that can help improve performance in races.
