Sync or Swim

Lindsay performed in a judged syncronized swimming competition today. Teams were mostly from local but there were a few teams from Los Angeles and one team from Las Vegas. Lindsay's team was awarded second place in her age group and category.

Syncronized swimming is quite difficult. All the routines are completed in deep water. There is no standing on the bottom of the pool. The girls stay afloat using paddling motions with feet and hands. There are techniques for turning and moving in unison with teammates.

One of the most interesting aspects of this sport is how the girls' hair is prepared. The hair must be pulled up into a bun or gathered up off the face, neck and ears. The hair is then painted with clear gellatin! The gellatin sets up and keeps the hair from shifting or coming lose during the routine. Often, the girls add glitter to the hair or facial makeup.

All the costumes are custom made and are unique for a particular routine. Often the costume includes a head piece clipped to the hair. The lipstick application almost looks clownish so as to be visible during the performance.