In the freestyle relay(s), the top 6 goes to the Olympics.
Yet, all the other events it is only the top 2.
That should change. Every athlete that makes the qualifying time should go to the Olympics. Look at the men's 100 back, the top 6 at the 2008 US trials swam faster than the 1992 Olympic Gold Medalist. Surely the 5th swimmer could have a better performance in the "big" pool.
Sending only 2 in each event "waters" down the potential performances at the Olympics, ultimately making the semi-finals less competitive. (other phrases could be used) The bottom line is, the top 16 at the Olympics should represent the fastest in the world.
Parents
Former Member
Back in the '70s each country was allowed three swimmers in each event. This was changed to two, in large part anyway, due to the U.S. team's dominance. The U.S. was going 1-2-3 too many times for the Olympic Commitee's taste, apparently.
Kirk, there is nothing wrong with this. As a non-American born person, and a perennial supporter of the underdog I think it's good that it shouldn't be 1,2,3 for any country in any event. Granted it may be interesting and a pride issue for the USA crowd but it begins to bore everyone else.
Undoubtedly the USA has a fantastic pool of talent in all sports, but the idea of the games is (supposedly) about coming together and putting the politics and nationalism aside. It's also supposed to be for amateurs but that's another can of worms.
I think the participation and inclusion is the lofty goal here. Do you really care if someone grabs the bronze, and becomes a hero in their country, instead of it going to another American swimmer? I may be different to others but I like to see new team/people win things. It doesn't change who may be the best, greatest, fastest etc...it's just good to see atleast in the context of the Olympic games.
To be honest, I think the decathalon IS the Olympics. 1 person doing 10 events that test all round athletic ability. Hey, that's just me though.
Back in the '70s each country was allowed three swimmers in each event. This was changed to two, in large part anyway, due to the U.S. team's dominance. The U.S. was going 1-2-3 too many times for the Olympic Commitee's taste, apparently.
Kirk, there is nothing wrong with this. As a non-American born person, and a perennial supporter of the underdog I think it's good that it shouldn't be 1,2,3 for any country in any event. Granted it may be interesting and a pride issue for the USA crowd but it begins to bore everyone else.
Undoubtedly the USA has a fantastic pool of talent in all sports, but the idea of the games is (supposedly) about coming together and putting the politics and nationalism aside. It's also supposed to be for amateurs but that's another can of worms.
I think the participation and inclusion is the lofty goal here. Do you really care if someone grabs the bronze, and becomes a hero in their country, instead of it going to another American swimmer? I may be different to others but I like to see new team/people win things. It doesn't change who may be the best, greatest, fastest etc...it's just good to see atleast in the context of the Olympic games.
To be honest, I think the decathalon IS the Olympics. 1 person doing 10 events that test all round athletic ability. Hey, that's just me though.
