My question concerns the rules for the backstroke start for both World Aquatics and USMS. They are outdated.
1. Championship level touchpads extend past the surface of the water as a flat wall.
There is no gutter.
With or without the backstroke ledge, the rules are unclear about whether or not parts of the feet and toes can be above the surface of the water at the start.
I see that the elites, using the ledge, usually have their toes and part of their foot above the water - with all toes in contact with the touchpad.
I'm hoping the Mollie Grover or some one from Rules can clarify the rules.
2. Many pools have gutters and for those pools, the rules apply.
Thank you,
Philipp
USMS: 101.1.2 Backstroke Start
B All courses—The swimmers shall line up in the water facing the starting end with both hands placed on the gutter or on the backstroke starting grips. Standing in or on the gutter, placing the toes above the lip of the gutter, or bending the toes over the lip of the gutter before or after the start is prohibited. When using a backstroke ledge at the start, at least one toe of each foot must be in contact with the end wall or face of the touchpad. Bending the toes over the top of the touchpad is prohibited.
World Aquatics
6 BACKSTROKE
6.1 Prior to the starting signal, the Athletes will line up in the water facing the starting end, with both hands holding the starting grips. Standing in or on the gutter or bending the toes over the lip of the gutter is prohibited. When using a Backstroke ledge at the start, at least one toe of each foot must be in contact with the end wall or face of the touchpad. Bending the toes over the top of the touchpad is prohibited.