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Suit Up or Sink

Mar 22, 2000

Paul Quinlan

Australia's National Head Coach Don Talbot, amid concerns of the legitimacy of the new body suits, has warned that the Australian swimmers will be at a disadvantage if they are not wearing the new bodysuits during the Olympics.

"It will be a matter of Suit up or sink", said the experienced campaigner.

The Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) has moved to have the matter aired before the Court of Arbitration in Sport (CAS) in a matter of days, after FINA this week refused a request from the committee to clarify its approval of the suits.

FINA had already approved all current suits, submitted to it by the worlds leading swimwear manufacturers, as being in accordance with its rules.

Although invited to join the AOC in approaching the court, Speedo and Adidas are believed to have declined the offer.

The AOC understandably, believing that the FINA rule is not clear, is concerned that medallists could be challenged in the CAS, and wishes to see the rule declared unambiguous and safe for those swimming in the new suits, in advance of the 2000 Olympics medal presentations.