Russia's Olympic record in synchronized swimming is impeccable. The country won gold at the last three Summer Games - in Sydney, Athens and Beijing. However, London in 2012 looks set to prove a tougher test.
The beautiful sport is often called a Russian one, as it enjoys huge popularity in the country and the national team is the indisputable world leader. But it could soon be knocked off the top spot. Other sides are strongly challenging the Russians as was once again evident during this weekend's world trophy event in Moscow.The main prize of the competition went to Spain, who suffered problems with the music during their performance, but were still delighted to win.“We heard there was something wrong with the music. But we only could continue performing. At the end of the day we know our routine very well, we're almost like machines. It's a great victory for us, especially because it happened in Moscow,” says Thais Henriquez of Team Spain.Russia was represented mostly by juniors at this event, and took the silver medal. Afterwards they said the Olympics will be a completely different competition.“It's a long way to go until the London games. And in England our team will have a different squad. Only a few of our girls will get into the Olympic squad. I think this event was kind of a friendly one,” explains Russia’s Karina Albekova. There is no reason to worry, they say. But one thing is known for sure – the Russians certainly will not take gold in synchronized swimming in London 2012 for granted.