FINA studies Spanish plan for illuminated swimming costume

Swimming CostumeBeijing - Spain wants to use illuminated bathing costumes for the team synchronized swimming final at the Olympics, but the international swimming federation FINA was still studying the proposal Tuesday.

"Their excuse is that you cannot use accessories, but this is not an accessory because otherwise sequins would be an accessory too," team member Andrea Fuentes said.

"They are still looking into it, it is not certain. We will know tomorrow or the day after," she added.

Fuentes said FINA is concerned the swimmers in Saturday's final could be electrocuted because the lights on the costumes are powered by battery.

"It is too innovative for such a conservative sport," she said.

The costume was developed over a period of two months and includes an electrical circuit. It radiates a stronger glow because it uses light instead of sequins.

Fuentes and Gemma Mengual qualified second Tuesday for Wednesday's duets final. dpa( )

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