Regarding the back to *** turn in the IM, is it legal to grab the wall or top of the gutter when turning? I find that grabbing the wall helps in pulling the legs into the wall in preparation for pushing off. I read the rules on the backstroke and IM and did not see anything prohibiting this, but want to make sure before developing a habit. Also, any advice on a better way of making the turn is welcomed.
Not that much because of its superior efficiency over Phelps', but mainly because I certainly don't trust our officials here. Phelps' version implies to reach an almost perfect vertical position whilst touching the wall.
I don't think our officials are ready to issue a fair judgment over this. Or at least, I would try it during non important races first too inquire about their education level.
This is an excellent point. I feel like I've got good command of the flip-over turn, enough so that I'm going to try it in competition, but in the back of my mind I've been wondering if I'm going to find myself arguing with an official after each IM race. I think it was Jeff Commings who mentioned a while back that he has successfully appealed some DQ's. I need to brush up on the rule book so I understand what's involved in appealing a DQ, in case I ever need to.
Not that much because of its superior efficiency over Phelps', but mainly because I certainly don't trust our officials here. Phelps' version implies to reach an almost perfect vertical position whilst touching the wall.
I don't think our officials are ready to issue a fair judgment over this. Or at least, I would try it during non important races first too inquire about their education level.
This is an excellent point. I feel like I've got good command of the flip-over turn, enough so that I'm going to try it in competition, but in the back of my mind I've been wondering if I'm going to find myself arguing with an official after each IM race. I think it was Jeff Commings who mentioned a while back that he has successfully appealed some DQ's. I need to brush up on the rule book so I understand what's involved in appealing a DQ, in case I ever need to.
