In Tongaat on Durban’s North Coast, a dream finally came true for crocodile man Khotso Mokoena as the long jumper leapt over a creek of snapping crocs at Crocodile Creek, which is home to over 5,000 Nile Crocodiles (see how many times we said ‘crocodile’, there?)

“This was something I’ve wanted to do for a very long time. It was about testing myself, my mental strength and overcoming the fear. As an athlete I’m constantly pushing myself, embracing that animal instinct to go as far as I can,” said Khotso.  I think I’m half-man, half-croc.”

Known for his trademark crocodile leather glove and long socks, Mokoena has always been closely connected with the reptile – he even has multiple crocodile tattoos on his body including the words ‘Crocodile Bites.’

The leap echoed the famous scene in the James Bond movie, ’Live And Let Die’ where 007 has to jump a row of three crocodiles to avoid being eaten. In the movie though, Ross Kananga (owner of the crocodiles) actually performed the stunt.

Mokoena is reportedly in training for the Diamond League, with his first appearance scheduled on May 18 in Shanghai.