Olympian vows to don "mankini" at London Games opening ceremony after losing bet

A runner dressed as movie character Borat finshes during the 2008 Flora London Marathon on April 13, 2008 in London, England.

/ Photo by Hamish Blair/Getty Images

(CBS News) Olympian Russell Mark should probably stick to shooting targets and not wagering on sports.

The Australian shooter, who won gold at the 1996 Atlanta Games, has pledged to wear a lime-green "mankini" at the opening ceremony of the London Olympics after losing an ill-advised Aussie Rules football bet.

According to Reuters, Mark vowed to wear the skimpy swimsuit made famous by the raunchy movie character "Borat" if Melbourne-based Carlton somehow lost to underdogs St. Kilda in the Australian Football League.

St. Kilda stunned Carlton, winning by four goals on Monday.

Asked on Tuesday if he had indeed made the promise, the veteran athlete told a local radio station: "I actually did make that statement. I still can't believe they [St. Kilda] did it. Anyway a lot of people might think that a mankini might look better than the uniform they've nominated for us so I'm not sure it's such a bad thing."

He may have a point. The uniform designated for Team Australia looks more like a jacket worn by a stodgy country club president than an Olympic athlete.

Making matters worse is Mark's senior status. Because this will be his sixth Olympics, the 48-year-old is a contender to be Australia's flag bearer.

Summed up an Australian Olympic Committee spokesman: "Imagine the flag bearer out in front of our team in a mankini. And a big, butch shooter at that."

[nohater]

he should not be allowed to participate. he is an embarrassment to the many other olympic athletes and especially to his country. it's the olympics and he should dress appropriately representing his country. he is a jerk.

[goldsummer]

Um... I think I am speechless. Maybe.

In my opinion, just the thought of this is repugnant and disrespectful to both his country and team mates.

[superdem1]

The athletes were all nude in the original Olympics. Get a grip, people. That said, some bodies should definitely stay covered up.

[fredm6900]

Male or female, you must dress appropriately as a pay of respect to viewers and self.

[ikizdim]

Nothing like making a mockery of the Olympics. What a tool. I'd be embarrassed to be Australian. Hopefully networks across the globe don't give him any airtime.

[formerlyluvnut]

Eeeewwww, NASTY. I do NOT want to see this crap.

[Scimajor]

"I want attention. Look at me!" .... that's all this is about.

[AOCGUY]

All I can say is why

[elenicoz]

Now there is someone who has a healthy opinion of his body

[bcpats]

To borrow a quote - - "stupid is as stupid does"