High-tech swimsuit stirs controversy
Posted: Fri Mar 28, 2008 2:30 pm
This was too funny not to post....especially the comment about Formula 1.
The Los Angeles Times (3/28, Dillman) reports that competitive swimming has recently been turned "upside down" because of a "controversial" new swimsuit, Speedo's LZR Racer, which "has ignited debate over whether high-tech apparel provides an unfair advantage." The suit was "designed with help from NASA and its wind tunnels" and includes "ultrasonically bonded seams" which reduce drag. In fact, "14 world records" have been set in the past six weeks, "13 in the LZR suit." Dutch "Olympic champion Pieter van den Hoogenband captured the essence of the controversy: 'This [suit] allows far less talented swimmers to go fast,'" he said. While the suit "was approved by FINA, swimming's international governing body," the group now says it will be "reviewing the procedures and regulations for approval of swimwear" next month. Still, "French swim officials, in particular, complain that the sport is beginning to resemble Formula One racing."
The Los Angeles Times (3/28, Dillman) reports that competitive swimming has recently been turned "upside down" because of a "controversial" new swimsuit, Speedo's LZR Racer, which "has ignited debate over whether high-tech apparel provides an unfair advantage." The suit was "designed with help from NASA and its wind tunnels" and includes "ultrasonically bonded seams" which reduce drag. In fact, "14 world records" have been set in the past six weeks, "13 in the LZR suit." Dutch "Olympic champion Pieter van den Hoogenband captured the essence of the controversy: 'This [suit] allows far less talented swimmers to go fast,'" he said. While the suit "was approved by FINA, swimming's international governing body," the group now says it will be "reviewing the procedures and regulations for approval of swimwear" next month. Still, "French swim officials, in particular, complain that the sport is beginning to resemble Formula One racing."