SHE is not much of a gamer, but Alison Carroll is probably the dream girl of gamers the world over.
Kicking and somersaulting in skin-tight costumes that show off her ample bust and lithe figure have got her noticed.

That is what the 23-year-old does when she travels to conventions around the world promoting Tomb Raider: Underworld.

The former golf club receptionist, who has 12 years of professional gymnastics experience, is the face of Lara Croft - the voluptuous protagonist of the Tomb Raider games. The role is most famously played by Angelina Jolie in the movie adaptation.

Alison's schedule playing the sexy archaeologist leaves the brunette from Croydon, England, little time for games. 'I'm much better at doing the real thing,' she told Digital Life. This includes diving without breathing gear.

As a sports ambassador, she has represented Great Britain in competitions and performed for the Prince of Wales.

'I've always wanted to play an action heroine who can do her own stunts,' she said.

Now, as Lara Croft, she will be an ambassador for the game that caused a sensation in the 1990s for eschewing a typical male hero for a bodacious heroine who kicks butt.

Since starting her stint in August, she has been busy preparing for the role, working out six days a week.

That leaves her little time for romance. Not that it matters because she is not looking for a long-term relationship, reported Britain's The Sun.

'I'm single and having fun... most men can't keep up with me. But playing Lara Croft, the sexiest game heroine there is, should get me a few more dates,' she quipped.

What kind of training do you go through to play Lara Croft?

I train six days a week, going to the gym, running or doing gymnastics. I will also be undertaking Special Air Services training (the British Army's most elite unit goes through this too), a course in firearms and a crash course in archaeology.

What's the toughest stunt you've had to pull so far?

An underwater photo shoot. I had to learn to scuba dive in 20 minutes, be tied to the bottom of the tank without any breathing equipment and rely solely on two stunt divers to keep me alive.

Most guys are probably more interested in Lara's body than her adventures. Does that bother you?

What makes her attractive is not only her beauty but also her strength of character. She's one very lucky girl to have it all.

Has your role as Lara Croft gotten you a lot more attention from men? Or a boyfriend?

I've been meeting all the fans. which is great but, unfortunately, I haven't got time to pursue a relationship right now.

What should a guy do if he wants to ask you out? Do you like geeks?

I think I would need the male version of Lara Croft. I'm still waiting to find one.

This story was first published in The Straits Times Digital Life on 22 October 2008.