HINDsight: Development of the Original Swim Lap Display

June’s “HINDsight 2020” – a monthly share where we take a moment to reflect on our history to celebrate and be inspired.

In 1975, our founder, Greg Hind, developed and patented a swim accessory that would revolutionize the competitive swim industry: The Lap Display.

Its popularity grew quickly. By 1976, the HIND Lap Counter was selected for use in the XXI Olympic Games in Montreal.

At Left: photo of Lap Counter and other accessories From HIND’s 1976 company catalog.  

 

 

Original Lap Counter Description from HIND’S 1976 Company Catalog

All Plastic (no metal or wooden parts), with regulation ascending or descending numbers in high-gloss Black Paint on white panels which rotate on a vertical axis and always stay in proper sequence. Never float up. Last-lap card is fluorescent.

Handles all races (including the 1650) and complies with all NCAA, AAU, and FINA regulations.

May be held in the water or is self-standing. Measures just 14” x 14” X 1/2”, to lie flat for efficient transportation and storage. Handle hole permits easy carrying. Ideal for coaches, parents, beginners and experts.

 

PATENT Ser. No. 539,719 Details

The ornamental design for a data display indicator for an athletic event or the like.

Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a data display indicator for an athletic event or the like showing the new design;

FIG 2 is a top plan view; and

FIG 3 is a rear perspective view.

 

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