Bartosik

Alison Bartosik, the U.S. team looks to return to the podium after being shut out of the medals for the first time in Sydney.

USATODAY.com 2005

Kozlova and Bartosik earned their places in January.

USATODAY.com 2005

Kozlova and Bartosik have been fourth at most international competitions since they teamed up three years ago.

USATODAY.com - Americans have shot at synchronized swimming medal 2004

"When we heard this music, we definitely thought of snakes," Bartosik said.

USATODAY.com - Americans have shot at synchronized swimming medal 2004

Synchro bronze for U.S. pair Alison Bartosik and Anna Kozlova medal in duet event.

USATODAY.com 2004

"In this sport, it's very difficult changing your ranking," said Bartosik, of Santa Clara, Calif.

USATODAY.com - Americans have shot at synchronized swimming medal 2004

"We were trying to do something where we're connected and intertwined," Bartosik said.

USATODAY.com - Americans have shot at synchronized swimming medal 2004

Americans Alison Bartosik and Anna Kozlova were third with 96.751.

USATODAY.com - Americans have shot at synchronized swimming medal 2004

With no restrictions on music, choreography or elements, Bartosik and Kozlova used their 10 seconds of deckwork to wrap their arms and legs together, with one of the women on all fours and the other on her back.

USATODAY.com - Americans have shot at synchronized swimming medal 2004

Alison Bartosik, left, and Anna Kozlova compete in the duet technical routine.

USATODAY.com - Americans have shot at synchronized swimming medal 2004