Swimmer takes on Straits of Florida with no shark cage

Chloe McCardel will battle exposure, swift sea currents, stinging jellyfish, sharp-toothed sharks and her own physical limits when she attempts a record swim today from Cuba to Florida.

The 29-year-old Australian, who is bidding to become the first person to make the 100-mile (161-km) Straits of Florida crossing without the protection of a shark cage, said that the challenge has great allure for top athletes.

“At the moment it’s the most high-profile marathon long-distance swim, and swimmers really want to come here and be the first,” McCardel said. “It’s very important; it’s like winning a gold medal.”