And what a championship that would be, on the fabulous Copacabana Beach before a packed stadium of true Brazilian Beach aficionados! The challenge doesn't stop there. In 2004 there's another Olympic medal up for grabs in Athens.

Natalie says she loves everything about Beach - the culture, the lifestyle, sand, sea and athleticism, but when asked to name her favorite event, she heads for the mountains. "Austria," she replies, when asked to name her favorite tournament. "It's beautiful! They look after the athletes well and the VIP area is awesome!"

But work is work and she trains a grueling 25-30 hours a week with her coach Steve Anderson. That regime is essential if she wants to achieve her goal of "Consistent finals appearances and winning events." When looking for sporting inspiration, she most admires pro golfers Greg Norman and Karrie Webb (she also plays herself), as well as legendary basketballer Michael Jordan.

Now 27, Natalie still has her best years in front of her but looking ahead past her active sporting life, she would still like to be involved in Beach.
"I would like to build BVB in Australia so that it is one of the high profile sports. I would like to give everyone the opportunity to play our great sport." Go Girl!

On the Net: www.nataliecook.com and www.sandstorm.com.au