FINA had introduced in July final yr it might overview whether or not the Soul Cap product designed to suit over dreadlocks, braids and afros may very well be used if there was no benefit to be gained from utilizing them.
That call got here after some media reviews had quoted FINA as saying that the cap couldn’t be used ultimately yr’s Tokyo Olympics because it didn’t match “the pure type of the pinnacle”.
“I am delighted that this swim cap has joined FINA’s accredited swimwear listing,” FINA Govt Director Brent Nowicki advised Reuters. “This announcement follows … overview and dialogue on cap design shut between FINA and Soul Cap over the previous yr.
“Selling variety and inclusivity is on the coronary heart of FINA’s work, and it is rather essential that every one aquatic athletes have entry to the suitable swimwear.”
Producers Soul Cap welcomed the choice by FINA so as to add the cap to its accredited swimwear listing from September 1.
“It has been an extended highway getting right here, with loads of ups and downs on the best way,” it stated in a press release on its web site.
“However the reality is: we could not have finished it with out you. So from everybody right here at Soul Cap, we wish to thank all of you within the swim neighborhood for coming collectively to share your voices and lift consciousness about accessibility and inclusion within the sport.”
Black swimmers are outnumbered in elite swimming, with the game looking for to interrupt down socio-economic boundaries.
British Olympian Alice Dearing, who’s Black, had partnered with Soul Cap to assist promote higher variety, with some younger Black girls reportedly delay swimming due to hair points.
