AIS first off the blocks in new swim starts
The Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) has become Australia's first venue to provide new state of the art starting blocks approved by swimming's international governing body, FINA.
Designed by Omega, these innovative starting blocks have been earmarked for use in FINA competitions from 2010.
The blocks will make their Australian debut at Swimming Australia's 'Duel in the Pool - Australia vs Japan' at the AIS on 9th and 10th May.
At a recent unveiling of the blocks, AIS Director Professor Peter Fricker was joined by AIS swimming head coach Shannon Rollason and AIS Olympians Brenton Rickard, Felicity Galvez and Ashley Delaney in unveiling the addition to the AIS pool in Canberra.
Professor Fricker explained "Australian swimmers can now adapt to the new technology which will become the status quo for all international swimming events in the future."
The most significant development in the new starting block is an adjustable slanted footrest, allowing swimmers to use a crouch start with the rear leg at a 90 degree angle at the knee.
Power generated from this new position will allow athletes to gain more propulsion through the air.
The blocks also boast a false start detection system and acoustic start devices so each competitor hears the start signal at the exact same moment.
Fricker added "the AIS swimming program provides swimmers with access to top coaches, technicians and facilities (and) the installation of the new Omega blocks is a further step to ensure Australian athletes have the best possible preparation for elite international competition."
For more information contact Omega's Pieter Du Plessis on 03 8844 3380, E: pieter.duplessis@swatchgroup.com.au
