The bright orange of the three Olympic swimmers depicted here provides a stark contrast to the muted palette of blue, white, and green that comprises the most typical background for the posters in this series. The outstretched right arms of the contestants and the waves (described by white heightening) that surround each of them as they propel themselves in unison through the water, create a powerful sense of forward motion. The 29 swimming events were among the most dramatic of the 1972 Summer Olympics. Mark Spitz won seven Olympic titles and set seven Olympic world records.