Jack, if we are to assume that bulkheads never move there would be no need to ever measure. But bulkheads frequently do move as amply illustrated in the example cited by Skip Thompson. Top flight pool (Auburn Univ.) and top flight competition (NCAA Championships). And the bulkhead moved between measurements prior to the start of competition and after the end of the day's session.
I understand that you're not happy with the decision to omit the results from Top Ten, but USMS has set certain standards that need to be followed. I actually have more concerns with FINA being sloppy with their standards. As an example, at least two world records were set in the South Central Regional Championships in which the pool was deemed to be 1/2" short. 1/2" per length is a really large discrepency and no matter how unfortunate for the swimmer those swims should not be counted as world records.
Jack, if we are to assume that bulkheads never move there would be no need to ever measure. But bulkheads frequently do move as amply illustrated in the example cited by Skip Thompson. Top flight pool (Auburn Univ.) and top flight competition (NCAA Championships). And the bulkhead moved between measurements prior to the start of competition and after the end of the day's session.
I understand that you're not happy with the decision to omit the results from Top Ten, but USMS has set certain standards that need to be followed. I actually have more concerns with FINA being sloppy with their standards. As an example, at least two world records were set in the South Central Regional Championships in which the pool was deemed to be 1/2" short. 1/2" per length is a really large discrepency and no matter how unfortunate for the swimmer those swims should not be counted as world records.
