Calling all Open Water Swimmers! Share Your Voice to Shape the Future of the Sport!

Please note that the views expressed in this poll are not necessarily the views of WOWSA. This poll is conducted solely for the purpose of gathering information and insights from the open water swimming community. The collected data will be used to inform discussions and considerations within the committees. We value the diverse perspectives of our community and encourage respectful dialogue on the topics presented in this poll. The results of the poll will be available to the public on May 31, 2023.

Rules & Regulations

1. Do you believe all organizing bodies in open water swimming should form a unified committee with representation from each organization to ensure consistency and collaboration in establishing rules and regulations?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

2. Do you believe it is important for the sport of open water swimming to work towards establishing more international standards, rules, and regulations that apply to both assisted and unassisted swims?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

3. Should the establishment of new local governing bodies in open water swimming be reviewed by a committee comprising representatives from all existing governing bodies to ensure safety and adherence to established standards?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

4. Are standardized protocols necessary to address rule violations that occur during swims and events?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

5. Should there be a standardized process for resolving disputes that occur during open water swims and events?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

6. Do you think it is necessary to establish guidelines for safety equipment and procedures in open water swimming to ensure the well-being of participants and support crews?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

7. Should there be specific regulations and criteria in place for the recognition of official open water swimming records worldwide?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

8. Do you believe that all open water swimming events should require approval and sanctioning from the appropriate governing bodies to ensure compliance with established rules and regulations?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

9. Should there be a uniform classification system for different types of open water swims (e.g., marathon swims, channel crossings, stage swims) to provide clarity and consistency in categorizing achievements?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

10. Are you in favor of regular updates and revisions to existing rules and regulations in open water swimming to adapt to evolving safety standards and emerging trends in the sport?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

Safety

1. Is it necessary to discuss and establish essential safety guidelines and protocols for open water swims and open water events?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

2. Do you believe conducting effective risk assessments and developing contingency plans is important for ensuring the safety of participants in open water swims and open water events?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

3. Should the committee prioritize measures to ensure the safety of swimmers and support crews during open water swimming competitions?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

4. Do you believe there should be mandatory safety equipment requirements for participants in open water swims?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

5. Is it necessary to have trained safety personnel present during open water swims and events?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

6. Should the committee focus on establishing clear communication channels and emergency response protocols for open water swims?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

7. Do you think it is important to create guidelines on swimmer monitoring and supervision during open water swimming events?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

8. Is it necessary to discuss and establish procedures for identifying and responding to potential hazards in open water swimming venues?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

9. Should the committee address guidelines for the use of safety boats or kayaks to provide assistance and support during open water swims?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

10. Do you believe there should be a comprehensive medical plan in place for addressing health emergencies during open water swimming events?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

Coaching and Education

1. Should educational programs and resources be developed to support the training and development of open water swimmers and coaches?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

2. Do you believe there are best practices among open water swimmers, coaches, and organizations?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

3. Should the committee focus on establishing standards and certifications for coaches and professionals involved in open water swimming?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

4. Is it necessary to provide specialized training for observers of open water swims to ensure accurate and consistent monitoring of swimmers?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

5. Should there be standardized guidelines and protocols for the training of safety personnel and support crews involved in open water swims and events?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

6. Do you believe in the importance of mentorship programs for aspiring open water swimmers and coaches?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

7. Should there be educational courses or workshops dedicated to risk management and safety practices specifically tailored for open water swimmers and coaches?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

8.Is it necessary to develop a comprehensive curriculum for open water swimming that covers technique, strategy, safety, and race preparation?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

9.Should there be resources and guidelines available to help coaches and swimmers navigate the logistical aspects of planning and participating in open water swims?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

10.Do you believe in the value of establishing a global network or platform for open water swimmers and coaches to connect and exchange ideas?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

Media and Communications

1. Should the committee develop guidelines or policies to address the promotion of false information or questionable practices related to open water swimming through media and online channels?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

2. Is it necessary to establish a code of conduct for open water swimmers and organizations regarding media interactions and claims of accomplishments, firsts, or records?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

3. Is it important to develop educational resources or guidelines for open water swimmers and organizations on how to responsibly engage with the media?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

4. Should new communications channels and platforms be created to effectively reach and engage with the target audience of open water swimming?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

5. Should there be collaborations with media outlets and influencers to increase the visibility and positive representation of open water swimming?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

6. Should the committee actively address and debunk misconceptions or myths surrounding open water swimming through educational campaigns or initiatives?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

7. Should there be a dedicated spokesperson or representative appointed to handle media inquiries and ensure accurate information dissemination about open water swimming?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

8. Do you believe in the value of fostering partnerships with other sports or organizations to leverage their media platforms and amplify the reach of open water swimming-related content?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

9. Should effective marketing strategies be implemented to promote the benefits of open water swimming and attract new participants?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

10. Should there be better public awareness and understanding of open water swimming to generate more interest and engagement in the sport?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

Environmental

1. Should open water swimming events prioritize the use of eco-friendly materials and practices to minimize waste and pollution?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

2. Is it necessary to implement measures to protect and preserve the natural habitats and ecosystems in which open water swims take place?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

3. Should open water swimming events promote the responsible use of resources, such as water and energy, to reduce their environmental footprint?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

4. Is it important to educate participants and spectators about the importance of environmental sustainability in open water swimming?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

5. Should there be guidelines in place to ensure that open water swimming events leave no trace and minimize their impact on the environment?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

6. Is it necessary to collaborate with environmental organizations and experts to develop strategies for minimizing the ecological impact of open water swimming events?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

7. Should open water swimming events encourage participants and spectators to engage in environmental conservation activities, such as beach cleanups or restoration projects?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

8. Is it important to raise awareness about the potential threats to aquatic ecosystems and marine life posed by open water swimming events, and to develop mitigation strategies?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

9. Should there be guidelines and regulations for the responsible disposal of waste and recycling at open water swimming events?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

10. Is it necessary to incorporate environmental sustainability as a criterion when selecting and approving open water swimming event locations?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

Inclusion and Diversity

1. Should open water swimming events actively promote inclusivity by offering adaptive or modified swim options for individuals with disabilities?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

2. Is it important to provide resources and support for underrepresented communities to participate in open water swimming?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

3. Should there be guidelines in place to address and prevent discrimination and harassment within the open water swimming community?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

4. Is it necessary to provide education and training on diversity and inclusion for open water swimming coaches, officials, and organizers?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

5. Should open water swimming events prioritize creating a welcoming and safe environment for participants of diverse backgrounds and identities?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

6. Is it important to collaborate with organizations that specialize in promoting diversity and inclusion to ensure the effectiveness of initiatives in open water swimming?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

7. Should there be outreach programs to introduce open water swimming to communities that have traditionally had limited access to water sports?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

8. Is it necessary to collect and analyze demographic data to monitor and evaluate the progress of diversity and inclusion efforts in open water swimming?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

9. Should open water swimming events actively seek partnerships with organizations that support diversity and inclusion, such as LGBTQ+ organizations or community outreach programs?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

10. Is it important to celebrate and recognize the achievements of diverse individuals in open water swimming to inspire and encourage representation?*

YesNoMaybeNone/Not Sure

Role in open water swim community (multiple selection)

Please share your suggestions and concerns regarding any issues that the Committees can address in the future. Your input is valuable in shaping the direction and focus of our efforts. (optional)

Do you know individuals within the open water swimming community who you believe would be well-suited for any of the six committees of the WOWSA Advisory Board? Please provide their names or contact information (optional) if you would like to recommend someone for consideration.