Australian Chloe McCardel latest to set sights on Cuba-Florida marathon swim
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Australian Chloe McCardel will battle swift sea currents, jellyfish stings, dangerous sharks and her own physical limits this week when she attempts a record swim from Cuba to Florida.
The 29-year-old is bidding to become the first person to make the 100-mile (161-kilometer) Straits of Florida Crossing without the protection of a shark cage.
McCardel said Monday in Havana that the marathon swim is attracting lots of attention. Two other women have failed in four separate attempts the last two years.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}She says being the first to complete the swim would be like "winning a gold medal."
McCardel's support team is scheduled to join her Tuesday, with an eye on making her attempt the following day.