In which year did the Olympic Games first use semi-automatic digital display timing devices in swimming?

The Olympic Games first utilized semi-automatic digital display timing devices in swimming during the 1956 Melbourne Games. This marked a significant advancement in the technology used for timekeeping in sports, as it provided more accurate and reliable timing compared to previous manual methods. The introduction of such digital timing devices was important for the sport, especially in competitive events like swimming where precision is crucial.

The use of semi-automatic timing contributed to improving the overall fairness and accuracy of race results, enhancing the spectator experience and the administration of the events. This transformation began a trend towards even more advanced timing technologies that we see today, but the foundation laid in 1956 was pivotal in the evolution of sports timing.