A Rankings Mishap in South Korea

SEOUL, South Korea, December 29. IT has been a concern in our sport over the years that some of the leading governing bodies have done a poor job maintaining accurate records, most notably in the form of ranking times. Now comes the story in which South Korea bought into incorrect rankings posted on the Web site of FINA, the world governing body of swimming.

According to www.donga.com, South Korean swimming officials recently found themselves disappointed by the apparent realization that Tae Hwan Park wasn't as highly ranked on the international scene as first thought. When looking at the world rankings on FINA's site, officials from the country saw that Park was eighth in the 200 free and sixth in the 1,500 free, leading them to believe that Park wasn't the international medal contender they first thought.

Never mind that Park, over the summer and at the Asian Games in December, established continental records in the 200, 400 and 1,500 free events. Rather than second-guess the listed rankings and remain faithful in Park's talent, South Korea saw a long road ahead. Um, not a good thought, especially in light of the fact that the FINA rankings were well off.

Somehow, FINA's long-course rankings for the year included several performances from German swimmers produced in short-course competition. Consequently, the rankings were incorrect and took the shine of Park's rising star – at least from the Korean officials' perspective.

Two major problems arise from this scenario. First, with FINA as the governing body of swimming, it should be expected to produce correct rankings. What's the good of referencing the rankings if they are not accurate? Second, how can Korean swimming officials not be up on the rest of the world? Park is one of the first standouts from the country, and it's becoming clear why. Obviously, the gang up top is not on the ball.

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