Nov 10 2007
Grand Prix Scoring System? Let’s Discuss!
So USA Swimming announced a new points system for the Grand Prix circuit.
I read over it. Sounds good. So what do I want to discuss? I thought you’d never ask!
This is the line that got me thinking:
The standings will integrate male and female participants, and will recognize the swimmer with the highest cumulative point total.
What exacty does “recognize” mean? Does the overall points winner get a pat on the back? A handshake? Perhaps their very own write-up in Splash Magazine?
I think the prize money pool that drives the Mare Nostrum and World Cup tours is a really good thing. Especially in a sport like swimming. So is there a monetary incentive for participants? I know there are going to be swimmers who technically cannot accept prize money. So maybe scholarship money or a training stipend? Something?
Don’t get me wrong, I think the points system is a good idea! Seeing more swimmers — especially the National teamers — compete in Grand Prix meets is something I’m glad USA Swimming is focusing on; especially if they all decide to go to the Ohio State stop…*cough*.
I’m just looking for a little more clarification on how this points system is going to lead to more grand prix participation. Inquiring minds would like to know.
Similar Posts
6 Responses to “Grand Prix Scoring System? Let’s Discuss!”
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.
Hmmmmmmmm, interesting. I just hope its not too confusing, cause my ass gets confused easily, and that means y’all will be explaining things to me a lot. Ahahah
I think if they’re making the effort to have a points system and follow it just like Mare Nostrum, they should have a cash prize. It for sure makes it worth competing in and brings in some big named swimmers! Glad you wanted to discuss this, Suz! I have been wanting to chit-chat (Yes, I said “chit-chat”) about this too!!!!
I don’t think a cash prize is really all that necessary. If they are going to be going anyway it may get people to swim “off” events. We know these folks love to compete. Imagine how fun it would be for Robert Margalis to say I beat “Michael Phelps”. He swims many of the same events and then a few others. (although Michael is out with injury) We should take bets on who wins this thing. That’s where the cash prize should go.
Take bets? I didn’t say I was willing to put up any money! Stop trying to take my nonexistent money, lala!
Besides, leading up to Trials, I don’t think too many swimmers need an extra “push” to be competitive and get ready for swimming’s biggest stage. I just don’t see the point in instituting a points system without that extra incentive. Grand Prix meets were extremely competitive without it, and many athletes already did swim off events. I guess we’ll have to wait and see!
There is a cash prize for the top points winner. I found it on the entry sheet for one of the meets. It’s not a huge amount, but it’s something.
Welp, they gotta start somewhere! Good find!