From the 2008 USMS Rulebook, a new USMS/USA-S difference has entered the rulebook:
MS1.3 Backstroke—Note: The swimmer who turns past vertical and, in a continuous motion, grabs the wall before pushing off with the feet while on the back is considered to have executed a “continuous turning action”.
But it seems to me that this isn't really a difference. In the USA Swimming Stroke & Turn Situation Resolutions:
6. During the 50-yard backstroke a swimmer in lane 4 approaches the turn. When the swimmer moves past vertical towards the *** to make a flip turn, he finds himself in contact with the wall. With out doing a flip turn the swimmer leaves the wall past vertical towards the back. What action should the turn judge take?
Recommended Resolution: No action is required. During the turn the shoulders may be turned past vertical toward the *** after which a continuous single arm pull or a continuous double arm pull may (not required) be used to execute the turn. As the turning action was continuous, there should be no disqualification.
Applicable Rules: 101.4.3
The USMS portion would appear to be an insignificant textual difference, and seemingly the same rule: the codification of a standing USA Swimming interpretation. (It is a good thing though that it's explicitly stated!)
Or am I missing something here?
Patrick King
