Doping responsible for records, not new suits

By Steve Keating

OMAHA, Nebraska (Reuters) - Olympic 50 meters freestyle champion Gary Hall Jr. believes the recent glut of swimming world records has more to do with old-fashioned doping -- which he says is on the increase -- than hi-tech swimsuits.

Since the introduction of the Speedo LZR Racer this year, swimmers wearing the revolutionary bodysuit have smashed numerous world marks.

American Hall, however, believes that the serious doping which once almost destroyed the sport continues to lurk just below the surface.

"I don't have any proof but it's my gut feeling doping exists," Hall told reporters on the opening day of the U.S. trials. "I need to wait and see what it feels to be shaved and tapered in these new technology suits.

"I am convinced there is an advantage to wearing the suits but I don't think it accounts for all the time drops we've seen.

"Do I think it (doping) is getting worse? Yes, I do.

"It's here, it's in the United States.

"I train with an international group of swimmers and all of them have stories and a few of them have had offers and I'm not at liberty to say (any more).