I realised that it required the ability to synthesise elements of gymnastics, figure skating, dancing and swimming. None of which I was particularly good at. Nor did I possess the requisite strength and grace, endurance and elegance, qualities that I deeply admire in others. Since that day, I have come to appreciate the athleticism and artistry that have continued to evolve within the discipline. And I have become increasingly puzzled at its lack of acceptance.
Controversy surrounds a number of aspects.
The noseclip is nothing more than an essential piece of equipment designed to help the athlete perform at his or her best. Much like goggles, spikes, turbo helmets, Lycra bodysuits and resin. Maybe it's the smiling. Maybe a sport has to produce images of pain and stress, and elicit cries and grunts of effort, in order to be taken seriously. And yet, this is not a charge levelled against skating or gymnastics where the scoring is also subjective, and points are given for artistic presentation as well as technical merit.