Olympic dress

Congratulations, of course, to Britain's synchronised divers on their silver medal. But why the trend towards multiples and team sports at the modern Olympics? If any aspect of the ancient games cries out for revival, it is the search for the best individual in any discipline, new or old. And while the crowning of the medal-winners with wild olive wreaths this year lends a nice Classical touch, the regulation team tracksuit utterly ruins the effect. The victor's dress-code requires a cloak - or nothing. We wonder whether the IOC and the Greek organisers have not got their mingling of innovation and tradition the wrong way round.

Congratulations, of course, to Britain's synchronised divers on their silver medal. But why the trend towards multiples and team sports at the modern Olympics? If any aspect of the ancient games cries out for revival, it is the search for the best individual in any discipline, new or old. And while the crowning of the medal-winners with wild olive wreaths this year lends a nice Classical touch, the regulation team tracksuit utterly ruins the effect. The victor's dress-code requires a cloak - or nothing. We wonder whether the IOC and the Greek organisers have not got their mingling of innovation and tradition the wrong way round.