Well, here we are again, Challenge!rs -- with one of your favorite subjects for a Challenge! - animals ;-) It's summertime, and we're goin' swimming . . . Come on in, the water's fine (hehehe).

Casuarina Club Coach Spells Speed With A 'C' -- (Darwin, Australia 30/6/01) An Australian coach is using a crocodile in the pool to encourage his swimmers to improve their speeds.

Mark Davies, from Casuarina Crocs Swimming Club in Darwin, says the technique improves his squad's performance.

Local swimming authorities say he'll have to use a private pool if he wants to continue using the crocodile while the Australian Institute of Sport has condemned the technique.

Mr Davies is unrepentant. He told Australian newspaper The Telegraph: "The thought of something chasing them down the pool certainly improves the speeds of my swimmers."

Before the 1.8-metre saltwater crocodile is lowered into the water, its jaw is bound with tape and its claws are clipped.

Have fun, and Go For It, Challenge!rs!!!

-- Áine