Updated: October 2026
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For years, Spectrum Aquatics' Xcellerator® and Record Breaker Starting Blocks have been trusted fixtures on competitive pool decks nationwide. They've supported athletes through countless practices, personal bests, record-breaking performances, and championship moments.
They've done exactly what they were designed to do, and they've done it well.
So why is Spectrum Aquatics retiring them? Because innovation is a responsibility, not just an opportunity.
At Spectrum Aquatics, we believe we owe it to the athletes who push themselves to improve, the coaches who dedicate their careers to developing those athletes, and the aquatic facilities that invest in competitive swimming to continually challenge what's possible.
We owe them equipment that evolves alongside the sport.
When our engineering, experience, and understanding of competitive swimming let us develop better solutions, we have a responsibility to move forward.
That's why, on December 31, 2026, Spectrum Aquatics will retire the Xcellerator and Record Breaker Starting Blocks and move forward with Sprint with Rapid Lock™ and Dash as our competitive starting block lineup.
Spectrum Aquatics developed the Sprint with Rapid Lock™ Starting Block to improve the starting experience with innovative technology and practical design features.
Sprint features the Rapid Lock™ adjustable track-start wedge, offering 7 adjustment positions and an intuitive paddle-style lever that eliminates traditional cables and pins. This design allows swimmers to quickly and securely adjust the wedge to their preferred starting position during practices and competitions.
Olympic gold medalist Katharine Berkoff is a big fan!
“The Dash and Sprint are my favorite starting blocks. I love the large platforms because they give me plenty of room to feel comfortable and confident before the start. Dash is great for all swimmers, but if you want a really powerful start, Sprint is the way to go.”
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Competitive swim coaches need starting blocks that accommodate athletes of different ages, abilities, and experience levels while supporting efficient practices and competitions. Easy-to-adjust, dependable equipment that adapts to changing program needs can make a meaningful difference in day-to-day training.
Spectrum Aquatics designed Sprint with Rapid Lock™ with an innovative track-start wedge adjustment system that lets swimmers quickly select from 11 positions with a simple paddle-style lever. By eliminating traditional cables and pins, Rapid Lock™ simplifies adjustments between swimmers, helping coaches spend less time managing equipment and more time focused on training and technique.
For programs seeking an economical competitive swimming starting block, Dash provides a durable, competition-ready solution with a spacious 24" x 32" non-slip platform. Dash also offers a clear upgrade path, allowing facilities to add the Rapid Lock™ wedge and side handholds as their competitive swimming programs evolve.
Together, Sprint and Dash give swim coaches reliable starting block options that support daily training, accommodate different athlete preferences, and offer flexibility as programs grow.
Spectrum Aquatics' Sprint with Rapid Lock™ Starting Blocks feature interchangeable, customizable top plates that allow swim programs to generate revenue through sponsorships.
Swim teams can sell sponsorships for major meets, championships, or special events by purchasing custom top plates with sponsor logos and charging more than the plates cost. The difference becomes fundraising revenue that can support team travel, equipment, and competition expenses.
Choosing competitive swimming starting blocks is a long-term investment for aquatic facilities. Whether purchasing equipment for a high school swimming pool, university aquatic center, municipal pool, or competitive swim club, facility operators must consider durability, maintenance requirements, competition standards, installation compatibility, and future equipment needs.
Spectrum Aquatics developed Sprint with Rapid Lock™ and Dash to address these considerations while providing two distinct options for competitive swimming programs.
Sprint with Rapid Lock™ is an advanced competitive swimming starting block featuring an innovative track-start wedge with 7 adjustment positions, a cable-free Rapid Lock™ mechanism, and extensive customization options.
Dash is an economical competitive swimming starting block designed for dependable performance and long-term flexibility. Facilities can upgrade Dash with the Rapid Lock™ wedge and side handholds, adding advanced features without replacing the entire starting block.
Both models offer customizable powder-coated colors, finishes, logos, and numbering. They meet the competitive swimming equipment requirements set by World Aquatics, USA Swimming, NCAA, and NFHS.
By focusing on Sprint and Dash, Spectrum Aquatics offers a streamlined starting block lineup that makes it easier for aquatic facility managers, architects, contractors, and coaches to choose equipment that meets current needs while planning for future upgrades.
Yes. We will continue providing replacement parts, service, technical assistance, and warranty support for existing Xcellerator® and Record Breaker Starting Blocks after their retirement on December 31, 2026.
Facilities do not need to replace existing starting blocks simply because the models are being discontinued. Properly maintained equipment can remain in use as long as it meets applicable safety and competition requirements.
For facilities considering an upgrade to Sprint or Dash, Spectrum Aquatics can also help evaluate existing starting block bases, anchors, and installation configurations to determine available retrofit or replacement options.
Competitive swimming never stands still. Athletes continue to push boundaries. Coaches discover new approaches to training. Facilities adapt to changing expectations, technologies, and competition requirements.
As a manufacturer of competitive swimming equipment, Spectrum Aquatics is committed to continuous improvement. Through advances in engineering, manufacturing processes, and feedback from aquatic professionals, we continually evaluate opportunities to improve our products and better meet industry needs.
Part of that process involves recognizing when newer designs offer meaningful advantages over existing products. Retiring Xcellerator and Record Breaker reflects our commitment to equipment that incorporates the latest innovations while maintaining the quality and dependability our customers expect.
The transition to Sprint and Dash starting blocks gives aquatic facilities two distinct solutions to meet different competitive needs and budgets, while maintaining Spectrum's commitment to quality, customization, and long-term customer support.
Importantly, facilities with existing Xcellerator and Record Breaker blocks don't need to replace their equipment just because those models are being discontinued.
Facilities can keep using existing equipment if it is properly maintained and meets applicable requirements. Spectrum will continue supporting customers with replacement parts, service, and warranty assistance.
If you're considering an upgrade, our team can help evaluate existing installations and identify available retrofit and replacement options.
The next generation is here. And we're just getting started.
Contact our Sales Department for personalized information and quotes today!