I've read a couple of articles lately about Tri and running events banning the use of mp3 players citing them as competitive advantage. Of course, I haven't seen any swimmers sporting these at events yet, but I was wondering if there has been any discussion in the swimming community.
I just recently received one as a gift and use it in training, and it's great. Would it aid me in the 3K-5K OWS events? I think so. It can be a great motivator, and it would give me a bit of an advantage over those who didn't have one. I think it might even be a greater advantage in a swimming event than in a running or cycling event where greater advantages are possible through equipment (shoes and bikes). In swimming, the only advantage granted is for those who use wet suits, but they are already typically divided to another division.
What do you think? Should mp3 players be allowed or disallowed at OWS events?
Parents
Former Member
They are not allowed on most official channel swims (english, FINA sanctioned etc) as they are pacing devices. I'm not certain but I suspect they are not allowed for most USMS ow events under the same clause amybe some officials could chime in here. I think they should not be allowed because indeed they are aides/pacing devices and they prevent the wearer from being as alert to thier surroundings including hazards such as waves and boats and other swimmers.
They are not allowed on most official channel swims (english, FINA sanctioned etc) as they are pacing devices. I'm not certain but I suspect they are not allowed for most USMS ow events under the same clause amybe some officials could chime in here. I think they should not be allowed because indeed they are aides/pacing devices and they prevent the wearer from being as alert to thier surroundings including hazards such as waves and boats and other swimmers.
