Thorpe's Cast Removed -- November 7, 1999

Australian swim phenom, Ian Thorpe, who turned 17 last month, had his fiber glass cast removed on Friday (November 5) but still is being treated for a chip bone in his ankle.

Friday was also a banner day for the world record-holder in the 200 and 400 meter freestyle: he earned his driver's license. Said his coach, Doug Frost: "Getting his license--and on the first try--is like winning n Olympic gold medal to Ian."

Thorpe recently signed a three-year, multi-million dollar endorsement deal with Adidas, and will be featured in that company's advertising worldwide.