By June 1, 2010 is it really happened to the fast suits
At a meeting in Bangkok is really an end to the use of the fast suits. With retroactive effect from 1 January to the fast suits prohibited in Masters competitions. This is based on exactly the same rules as for the non-master races, including the dimensions of the swimwear. As of June 1 leading to the swimsuits worn by the open water races to meet the latest regulations regarding use of materials, only the size of the swimsuit stays abnormal. Both the ladies and the gentlemen may continue to use swimwear that runs from the neck to the ankles.
The official statements from the FINA are:
Open Water: from June 1, 2010 Open Water Swim Wear for Both Men and Women, Shall not cover the neck, extend past the shoulder, nor Shall extend below the ankle. All Open Water swim suits Shall comply with the FINA Criteria and Approval Procedures for Materials. Until June 2010, the 2009 models can be overused in order to protect the athlete from sunburn, jellyfish etc.
Masters: The Same swimwear regulations as a swimming pool will be Applied from January 1, 2010.
Is it clear whether the KNZB follows the rules for open water? I think we have such extreme conditions in the Netherlands with jellyfish and combustion that suits are a must. I can imagine that for a marathon race is useful, but in the Netherlands there is only 1 race over a distance of over 10km per season.
In the past year, the KNZB FINA regulations followed nicely, so I expect they will follow this rule. This summer is no 2009-tackle more open water.