Security a bigger concern for US swimmers than Athens sun

0 Comments | AFP, April, 2004

INDIANAPOLIS, United States (AFP) — This year's Olympic pool won't have a roof, and with searing temperatures expected in Athens during August, the swimming venue could be steamier than Brittany Spears' latest video.

But the brutal Mediterranean sun doesn't worry the American swimming hopefuls who say they're more concerned about Olympic security.

"I don't have a preference for a roof," said Michael Phelps, one of more than 600 Olympic-caliber swimmers in Indianapolis for an international competition last weekend.

Phelps, 18, won five medals at last year's world championships in Barcelona. In Athens, he's hoping to match Mark Spitz's Olympic record of seven golds.

"All I need is lane lines, water, and other competitors," he added. "I'm from...