2017 U.S. NATIONALS/WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS TRIALS
- Tuesday, June 27th-Saturday, July 1st
- 50-Meter Course
- Indianapolis, Indiana
- Meet Info
- Prelims timelines
- Broadcast schedule
- Event-by-event previews
- Psych Sheets
- Live Results
- Live Stream (U.S. viewers)
- Live Stream (International viewers)
It looked as though Leah Smith and Ella Eastin were set to compete in Budapest for the United States in the 400 IM after they finished 1-2, Smith at 4:33.86 and Eastin at 4:36.96.
It was announced shortly after, however, that Eastin had been disqualified for “swimming more than a quarter of the race in the style of backstroke.” We’ve heard that many times at this meet so far, and it’s been called the ‘Lochte Rule’ after Ryan Lochte did his kickouts for non-freestyle on his back, only to have FINA later rule that as illegal. Stanford’s Abrahm Devine was also called for this DQ this morning, after it looked like he had a spot in the 400 IM A final tonight.
It’s heartbreaking for Eastin, who finally beat her 2013 lifetime best of 4:38.97, and by over two seconds. This would’ve also been her first chance to compete for the USA at a long course World Championships.
Right after Eastin’s DQ announcement, it was announced that 8th place finisher Bethany Galat had also been called for the same reason. Boos could be heard from the crowd after both women were DQ’d.
With that, Elizabeth Beisel moves up to 2nd place with her 4:38.55, pretty much securing her spot on the 2017 Worlds team. That means Beisel has qualified for her sixth-straight World Championships.
wpDiscuz
This is ridiculous! The replay clearly showed Eastin pushing off after the 350 turn and IMMEDIATELY making the turn towards her stomach.
I wouldn’t call it immediate, you really need to be on your side when your feet leave the wall
One kick on the back is all that was needed
This will surely be overturned
I doubt it’s gonna get overturned as they do a video replay to confirm the violation when an infraction is called.
She did her best 200 meter fly and 400 meter I’m time, she has a good chance of getting second in the 200 meter I’m behind M Margalis as long as she avoids the same mistake.
I hope you are right!
WTF. That’s messed up. These guys and gals are world class swimmers. They aren’t making those silly mistakes even if the rule is stupid. When it becomes that consistent, something is wrong with the officiating.