The butt of many jokes - but this Olympic sport requires great strength and endurance together with flexibility, artistry and timing. Breath control is also a major feature, particularly when hanging upside down underwater. Two different routines are performed.

A hybrid of dance, swimming and gymnastics - a large part is performed, to music, underwater and the lifts and throws require flexibility and skill, as well as immense power. The fitness levels are higher than many other sports because most parts of the body are involved.

With teamwork also a key feature, this sport probably involves more disciplines than any other and has been around for over 130 years. To project team members into the air (flyers) is an amazing feat/sight and the sport, which is fast growing, deserves its Olympic and World status.

A quick guide to Olympic budgets (or, what you get for
the equivalent of $2 for EVERY PERSON ON EARTH !)-

www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-18585209

archie is right

laughing is easy, at the mandatory smiles - ok, rare in sport

but this particular sport requires a tough gymnast (an underwater one), tremendous strength and ability, long daily training with discipline(s) that most don't have - with a flair for movement, rhythm and to get along with cell like team mates - together with a critical public. and almost zero sponsorship

james or ethan would not be capable

3/4 minutes in each of two totally diverse performances , largely under water, is something none of us could have done - whilst performing the most challenging of physical tasks

watch for the sculls and eggbeaters - and think what your body might have done

injury is a major factor, with the woes of training - and there is very little money to be earned; most teams just give charity exhibitions