It is a standard rule before FINA-sanctioned World Cup and Grand Prix events that the water temperature is checked by the race officials 2 hours before the start of the race in the middle of the course and then once again before the race, both in the presence of a representative of the coaches.

In some cases, this regulation causes some interesting situations.

Before tomorrow’s Traversée Internationale du lac Memphrémagog, FINA Delegate Daniel Leduc asked for a representative.

But none of the coaches or other representatives wanted to go with Leduc. The reason why is because they would have to drive many miles away from the start area at 5:30 am. Because the water temperature had to be taken 17 km away from the start area due to the out-and-back course of the Traversée, one coach had to wake up early, drive out to the mid-point in the race, and then miss helping his athlete undergo their final preparations on race day.

With lac Memphrémagog expected to be in the 22-24ºC (71-75ºF) range, none of the coaches volunteered to go and left the water temperature check up to the FINA representatives.

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