World record progression 50 metres freestyle
Encyclopedia
The first world record in the men's 50 metres freestyle
in long course (50 metres) swimming
was recognised by the International Swimming Federation
(FINA) in 1976
. In the short course (25 metres) swimming events the world's governing body recognizes world records since March 3, 1991.
Freestyle swimming
Freestyle is an unregulated swimming style used in swimming competitions according to the rules of FINA. The front crawl stroke is almost universally used during a freestyle race, as this style is generally the fastest...
in long course (50 metres) swimming
Swimming (sport)
Swimming is a sport governed by the Fédération Internationale de Natation .-History: Competitive swimming in Europe began around 1800 BCE, mostly in the form of the freestyle. In 1873 Steve Bowyer introduced the trudgen to Western swimming competitions, after copying the front crawl used by Native...
was recognised by the International Swimming Federation
International Swimming Federation
Fédération Internationale de Natation is the International Federation recognized by the International Olympic Committee for administering international competition in the aquatic sports...
(FINA) in 1976
1976 in sports
1976 in sports describes the year's events in world sport.-Alpine skiing:* Alpine Skiing World Cup** Men's overall season champion: Ingemar Stenmark, Sweden** Women's overall season champion: Rosi Mittermaier, West Germany-American football:...
. In the short course (25 metres) swimming events the world's governing body recognizes world records since March 3, 1991.