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USA Swimming Adopts October 1 Ban on
Full-Body Suits (9/19/2009)
At its annual
Convention on Saturday, over 400 USA Swimming Delegates, representing swim clubs from all 50
states, voted overwhelmingly
for early implementation of a ban on high-tech swimsuits. The
legislation, which will go into effect on October 1, regulates
swimsuits worn in all USA Swimming–sanctioned
competitions.
The Amendment to Rule 102.9 reads, in
part:
“All swimsuits shall be made from
textile materials. For men, the swimsuit shall not extend above the
navel nor below the knees, and for women, shall not cover the neck,
extend past the shoulder, nor extend below the
knee.”
Textile fabric is
defined as material consisting of natural and/or synthetic,
individual and non-consolidated yarns used to constitute a fabric
by weaving, knitting and/or braiding.
The legislation will
go into effect here in the U.S. three months before FINA,
swimming’s international governing body, is expected to
implement the same rule for international
competition.
“As an
organization, we have been working with FINA and other swimming
nations to find a solution that will ensure a fair and even playing
field for all swimmers, and that will ultimately advance the best
interests of our sport,” said Chuck Wielgus, USA Swimming
Executive Director. “With Saturday’s vote, our
membership has sent a clear message that it wanted this action
taken sooner, rather than later. We hope that this action will put
the emphasis back where it belongs – on our athletes, their
training and hard work.”
The regulation will
apply to all levels of USA Swimming
meets.
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