Just a steam-letting off moment- I get to watch the track & field competitors fight for 3 places in the Games, but swimming which used to allow 3, just grants a measly 2 slots for a country. Yes, I know it was originally done to limit US dominance in the pool back when, but the swimming world is a very different place today. If a country can sweep the top 3 places in the games today, then that would be neat and I don't care which country it would be.
How do you feel?
Parents
Former Member
I agree that those countries that have three swimmers who meet the A qualifying time in the non-free events should be able to go just as in Track.
On a slightly related topic wasn't it obvious how different (and better) the US Swimming Olympic Trials selection process is compared to track and gymanistics.
Did anyone else find it very strange that the gymanistics team was selected at some remote ranch with coaches huddled in a room for hours versus the swimming trials where the team is selected by the clock! Also the contrast between the swimming athletes, both selected and those who missed, who appeared elated or at least satisfied that they gave their best versus the gymanistics selection where everyone is crying?
And the formula for track selection? Doesn't it show how weak the US team is once you get into the non-sprint events? For example, how does Susy Hamilton get a shot at the 1500 when she doesn't even run it at the Trials?
Don't blame NBC if US swimming is front and center for it's coverage...it's apparently our "strongest sport" and the selection process is open and fair.
I agree that those countries that have three swimmers who meet the A qualifying time in the non-free events should be able to go just as in Track.
On a slightly related topic wasn't it obvious how different (and better) the US Swimming Olympic Trials selection process is compared to track and gymanistics.
Did anyone else find it very strange that the gymanistics team was selected at some remote ranch with coaches huddled in a room for hours versus the swimming trials where the team is selected by the clock! Also the contrast between the swimming athletes, both selected and those who missed, who appeared elated or at least satisfied that they gave their best versus the gymanistics selection where everyone is crying?
And the formula for track selection? Doesn't it show how weak the US team is once you get into the non-sprint events? For example, how does Susy Hamilton get a shot at the 1500 when she doesn't even run it at the Trials?
Don't blame NBC if US swimming is front and center for it's coverage...it's apparently our "strongest sport" and the selection process is open and fair.
