Critics meet Olympians - Peter Bradshaw with the British Olympic synchronised swimming team

Peter Bradshaw perches on the high diving board to appreciate a superbly executed turning-circle of eight interlocking synchro stars. Photograph: Sarah Lee for the Guardian

Members of the British Olympic synchronised swimming team prepare to join their team-mates in the pool. Photograph: Sarah Lee for the Guardian

'A dream tidal rhythm in the water': the team use the 'sculling' motion to propel them through the water. Photograph: Sarah Lee for the Guardian

The British Olympic synchronised swimming team take a water break. Photograph: Sarah Lee for the Guardian

The British Olympic synchronised swimming team practises a formation on the poolside. Photograph: Sarah Lee for the Guardian

Italian coach Lolli Montico gives the team instructions. Photograph: Sarah Lee for the Guardian

The concentration and focus of the swimmers makes the rest of us look babyish. Photograph: Sarah Lee for the Guardian