Poll of the Week, April 20, 2012: Are Deaf Swimmers At a Disadvantage With the Current Start Rules Using Hand Signals And a Strobe?

PHOENIX, Arizona, April 20. FOR the past two weeks, our poll question focused on the timing of the Olympic Trials relative to the Olympic Games, and it appears those who voted believe the best time to have an Olympic Trials is 13 weeks or more before the Games. 40.8 percent would like to see Olympic Trials held more than three months out, while 25.60 percent picked our six to eight weeks option. 22.40 percent said nine to 12 weeks is an ideal time, while just 11.20 percent said three to five weeks is ideal.

Earlier this week, American Marcus Titus was informed that USA Swimming would not be using hand signals to accommodate deaf and hard-of-hearing athletes at the Olympic Trials, which sparked an outcry among the swimming community. Less than 48 hours later, USA Swimming responded with a statement that hand signals will definitely be used at the meet. But are deaf swimmers still at a disadvantage under the current rules, which use hand signals and a strobe during the start? Go to swimmingworldmagazine.com/poll to vote, and we'll bring you the results next week.

Name*

Email*

Welcome to our community. We invite you to join our discussion. Our community guidelines are simple: be respectful and constructive, keep on topic, and support your fellow commenters. Commenting signifies that you agree to our Terms of Use