New super swimsuit unveiled

The latest super swimsuit has been unveiled in Japan.Mizuno's 'water gene' suit is set to make waves at the Beijing Games this year with the help of double Olympic champion Kosuke Kitajima, who has signed up to wear the gear.The suit has been inspired by a marlin - thought to be the fastest fish in the world, and features low-friction drag and a gel-like fabric in water.But some critics have expressed concern that enhanced outfits are not being equally shared out to all competitors and that they may even give swimmers an unfair advantage.The LZR Racer bodysuit, made by rival company Speedo, has come under fire recently after being worn by several swimmers who broke world records.Out of 19 world records set in the last two months, 18 were achieved by swimmers wearing the suit which claims to reduce drag, help stabilise body position and reduce muscle oscillation and skin vibration.But Mizuno has played down the controversy saying Kitajima's chances were all about the hopes of the nation, not up to the performance of their swimsuit.The governing body of the swimming world Fina rejected claims the swimsuits broke rules outlawing buoyancy. Kitajima also dismissed the notion of swimmers getting an unfair advantage.He said: "I find it motivating that in this Olympic year, other swimmers are going the extra mile. But I don't think that's thanks to these swimsuits but of course these new world records are also a great motivator."

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ITN | April 11, 2008

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