In what’s become a media frenzy overnight, Swimswam ran the numbers and it appears that Michael Weiss has the most famous fingers in swimming history.
Last night at the Toronto 2015 Pan American Games, Weiss entered the pool for the men’s 4x200m freestyle relay with tape on his fingers. Due to a FINA regulation, the American relay was disqualified because of Weiss.
Following the incident the American team protested the disqualification and by the meet referee’s discretion they were reinstated and received the silver medal.
On Thursday morning, Weiss once again stepped out onto the pool deck in Toronto with tape on his fingers. He swam the 400m IM, taking the second seed overall behind fellow American Max Williamson, and upon his finish wasn’t disqualified.
This meant that Weiss had gotten his taped fingers cleared, and that he was allowed to compete with the bandaging without the risk of a disqualification.
The drama that has pursued over the incident has made Weiss’ ring and middle fingers on his left hand instant celebrities overnight.
An anonymous tip said that Jimmy Fallon reached out to Weiss’ fingers in an attempt to have them on the show. Apparently the middle finger was willing, however the ring finger was reluctant and Weiss had to decline Fallon’s invitation.
All photos are courtesy of Chris Tanouye/www.christanouye.com
Toronto 2015 Pan Am Games – Michael Weiss
Toronto 2015 Pan Am GAmes – Michael Weiss
Toronto 2015 Pan American Games – TEAM USA 800 free relay DQ
A precedent has been set with this decision. With a “no taping” rule and no permission from the FINA Medical Committee, how has this ruling been allowed to be over turned from the Referees decision ?
That’s an easy one to answer – USA Swimming
From ‘Sheila’ (Joey’s grandmother), Stay on track, Michael. Don’t let this throw you. I am still following your life, and Joey’s. Good luck.
Pretty sure that’s not the distinction he wants to be known for.