Michael Phelps vs. Synthetic Polymers

It is hard to believe the swimming records set by Michael Phelps in the latest Beijing Olympics. What is even more amazing is the ability of man's mind to develop a new wetsuit that enables a seemingly no-name swimmer (Paul Biederman) to crush Michael Phelp's and his 200m freestyle record in the World Championships this summer. Outrage from Phelp's manager Bob Bowman and much of the swimming community led, unfortunately, to the banishment of the high-tech suits by FINA (the governing body of swimming) . However, is it justified to ostracize the "NASA" suits? I mean Michael Phelp's record setting olympics was an acculmination of his fitness, skill, and...yes... the latest synthetic fiber, polyurethane, light-weight, ultra-expensive, high-tech swimsuit pant legs developed by Speedo. Does this mean all of his records are considered null and void since he had a competitive advantage to those swimmer's in prior olympics? It appears the only way to satisfy this beleaguered public is for FINA to impose an injunction that reverts to the time of ancient Greece in which athletes had to compete in the nude. This would be absolutely ridiculous. Alternatively, FINA should embrace these new tech suits in full support in the fusion of technology and sport, man's mind together with athletic talent. This makes it not only the accomplishment of the individual athlete but also the prowess and innovation of the thinkers behind the scenes. Perhaps one day two men, innovator and athlete, will stand atop of the podium, leaning forward to receive their well-deserved gold medal.

-MFE