STATE OF THE ART SWIMMING BLOCKS UNVEILED AT AIS

April 30: FINA approved state-of-the-art starting blocks to be used in the Duel In The Pool Meet between Australia and Japan on May 9 and 10 were unveiled at The Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) in Canberra today.

Designed by Omega, the starting blocks of the future have been earmarked for use in FINA competitions from 2010.

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.

"Australian swimmers can now adapt to the new technology which will become the status quo for all international swimming events in the future," Professor Fricker said.

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.

"The AIS swimming program provides swimmers with access to top coaches, technicians and facilities," Professor Fricker said.

"The installation of the new Omega blocks is a further step to ensure Australian athletes have the best possible preparation for elite international competition."