Sharp: Pat
Swimming world governing body FINA has announced that from next year a variety of new events will be available to masters swimmers in an attempt to boost participation in competitions.
There had been concerns that the ban on high-tech swim suits would mean a drop in the number of masters taking part in competitions as the opportunities for both records and personal bests were reduced. However, FINA’s introduction of a host of new longer-distance relays has ensured a number of new world and national records are up for grabs.
Following on from the success of 4 x 100m and 4 x 200m relays, January will see the introduction of a number of new events including the 3 x 50m individual limited medley, the 2 x 100m mixed doubles, the dressage and the 16 x 1500m squadron relay.
Acknowledging FINA’s aims, and in the first of a series of pre-emptive measures, British Swimming has confirmed that this year’s national masters championship in Sheffield will include these new events. It was also announced that the weekend’s competition will be hosted by 1980s broadcasting legend Pat Sharp in a bid to boost participation.
Colin Brown, director of London Swimming and an expert in boosting participation, unfortunately had no comment to make.
