By Paul-Andre Walker, Staff Reporter
Ilia Gayle (left) and Kandine Myers perform 'Nightmare' from the 'Lord of the Dance' (suite) in Island Aquatics Synchro Swimming Club's performance of 'Razzle Dazzle' at the National Stadium swimming pool on Sunday. - Ricardo Makyn / Staff Photographer
"RAZZLE Dazzle was a performance to remember," were the comments of a few proud spectators at the end of Island Aquatics Synchro Swimming Club's (IASC) performance at the National Stadium on Sunday.
In a performance that spanned over an hour, patrons were glued to their seats, witnessing a performance that presented not just beauty and grace but a spirit of teamwork not normally noted with swimming events.
"The unison in the acts that the young ones were able to achieve was remarkable," said another patron, displaying emotions akin to pride.
The growth of the crowd support was noticeable with almost the entire section designated for the audience being filled.
"I was quite pleased with the turnout, bearing in mind that up until today (Sunday) we had no idea what ticket sales were like," said a happy Katherine Lim Sang, coach of IASC.
"I don't know much about this sport but I think this was an excellent performance," said a prominent photographer, a sentiment that was agreed with by Katherine.
"The girls rose to the occasion and everybody, whether it be friend, family, or foe, gave me positive feedback on this," she said.
It was the little ones who brought the most attention though. In their divine innocence, they stole the show with an acquisition of skills that could elude the most physically capable of athletes.
The impression that the youngsters have created was two fold. It pointed to the potential for the continuance of a sport that has been largely ignored in Jamaica. The youngsters also point to the fact that Jamaica could be a force to reckon with in upcoming international events.
As impressive as the performances was the fact that the swimmers themselves created the intricate pieces that were on display, showing a remarkable level of understanding in a sport where they have had little or no international exposure.