Well ever since I aged up from 12 to 13 (which was a while ago), I have always wondered why there is no 100 IM for kids who are 13 and over, at least for short course (Yards) season (you can't really do a 100 IM in a LCM pool >.>). While there are some meets where you can do it, it isn't like a state event or anything. It seems like USA swimming is the only team that doesn't really allow it in such a way. I have looked at info on other countries and their swim teams and they seem to do it, as a state (province for other countries....) and above event even.
My best guess is that there is no analog to the 100 IM in long course competition. For every other event there is an analogous event between short course and long course formats. I admit it's not a great reason, but that's probably the reason.
The event I'd like to see added is the 800 medley relay.
The reason for having the women do only an 800 free at the Olympics is historical, I presume. Back in the early 20th century I'm sure it was based in sexism, but I doubt anyone thinks the 1500 is too far for women today. They swim the 800 because they've always swum the 800. Sort of like how women play best of three sets in tennis and men do best of five in all the major tournaments.
My best guess is that there is no analog to the 100 IM in long course competition. For every other event there is an analogous event between short course and long course formats. I admit it's not a great reason, but that's probably the reason.
The event I'd like to see added is the 800 medley relay.
The reason for having the women do only an 800 free at the Olympics is historical, I presume. Back in the early 20th century I'm sure it was based in sexism, but I doubt anyone thinks the 1500 is too far for women today. They swim the 800 because they've always swum the 800. Sort of like how women play best of three sets in tennis and men do best of five in all the major tournaments.
