There is an interesting article at the Swimming World website www.swimmingworldmagazine.com/.../26979.asp.
Some how the touch pad doesn't jibe with what everyone saw and there is no appeal.I like the suggestion that it takes 2 for a DQ,either 2 judges or a judge and the touch pad.I also think video evidence should be allowed for appeal.
Technology is a wonderful thing when it works. But more and more, folks are taking for granted that the technology is always right and that is a shame. It is clear from the video that the relay exchange time was incorrectly registered. Was this due to the take off pad, the timing pad, a light touch by the incoming swimmer or some combination? who knows but it doesn't change that this was completely and totally the wrong call. All false starts are supposed to have dual confirmation before they can be assesed. Where is the other confirmation method?
Technology is a wonderful thing when it works. But more and more, folks are taking for granted that the technology is always right and that is a shame. It is clear from the video that the relay exchange time was incorrectly registered. Was this due to the take off pad, the timing pad, a light touch by the incoming swimmer or some combination? who knows but it doesn't change that this was completely and totally the wrong call. All false starts are supposed to have dual confirmation before they can be assesed. Where is the other confirmation method?
