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
SwimStud,
I'd like to see less emphasis on country and more emphasis on fast swimming. Isn't that what the Olympics is about? The best of the best! I would like to actually see less flag waving. How about just the fastest runners, rowers, cyclists, best weight lifters, fencers, equestrians, softball players etc. Other countries dominate the "lesser" sports. Let's celebrate sport as opposed to country. So what if the US gets 1-2-3 in the 100 back, the Bulgarians will do the same in weight lifting.........good for them.
I know..............it will never happen.
If it could be done that way Glenn, then yes I'd be in favour of that. That said, the records show who swims at what speed and the US is blessed to have such a varsity level arena to see the best go head to head....even a few non Americans sneak in there too ;)
SwimStud,
I'd like to see less emphasis on country and more emphasis on fast swimming. Isn't that what the Olympics is about? The best of the best! I would like to actually see less flag waving. How about just the fastest runners, rowers, cyclists, best weight lifters, fencers, equestrians, softball players etc. Other countries dominate the "lesser" sports. Let's celebrate sport as opposed to country. So what if the US gets 1-2-3 in the 100 back, the Bulgarians will do the same in weight lifting.........good for them.
I know..............it will never happen.
If it could be done that way Glenn, then yes I'd be in favour of that. That said, the records show who swims at what speed and the US is blessed to have such a varsity level arena to see the best go head to head....even a few non Americans sneak in there too ;)
