Olivia Federici: Plymouth synchronised swimmer making waves in Rio

Synchronized swimmer Olivia Federici during the kitting out session in July. Credit: PA

Plymouth born Olivia Federici is arguably one of our region's most graceful athletes who'll be competing at the Olympics this Summer. She's a synchronised swimmer who's qualified for the duet event alongside her partner after a two year break from the sport - and without any funding.

Maybe that's why they've been selected for Team GB duty for the Olympic Games in Rio this summer.

The pair will compete in the 'duet' event after securing their place.

Credit: ITV News
Credit: ITV News

They're training for 8 hours a day and for six days a week. That includes gym work and speed swimming.

Both took a break after London 2012 and the World Championships in 2013 - returning to do other things. But they made a comeback late last year and whilst they're in the water, they got a lot to think about.

Great Britain's Olivia Federici (left) and Jenna Randall (right) in action during the Technical Routine of the Synchronised Swimming Duets competition at The Aquatics Centre in the Olympic Park, London. Credit: PA

It's repetitive. The girls have to stop and start to make sure the routine is just right.>Olivia and Katie are Team GB's only Olympic representatives so there's a lot of pressure but receiving their selection letter is certainly a massive motivation.