FINA seems ready to set a maximum water temperature for open water swims at 31 degrees centigrade(87.8 Farenheit.) www.swimmingworldmagazine.com/.../35137.asp Further proof that swimmers welfare is not FINAs # 1 priority.
I find it interesting and illuminating (in so many ways) that the study cited by FINA in justifying a 31 degree Celsius maximum in open water appears not to be publicly available for review. A decision that seems so counter-intuitive to our cumulative experience requires an unflawed study with appropriate numbers and types of test subjects, a vigorous protocol, and a clear conclusion. And, because the study was commissioned by two national governing bodies--neither with a sterling reputation for unbiased decision-making--I am highly skeptical right out of the gate, without even seeing the study results yet.
I find it interesting and illuminating (in so many ways) that the study cited by FINA in justifying a 31 degree Celsius maximum in open water appears not to be publicly available for review. A decision that seems so counter-intuitive to our cumulative experience requires an unflawed study with appropriate numbers and types of test subjects, a vigorous protocol, and a clear conclusion. And, because the study was commissioned by two national governing bodies--neither with a sterling reputation for unbiased decision-making--I am highly skeptical right out of the gate, without even seeing the study results yet.
