[1] The series is based on Barracuda, the 2013 novel by Australian author Christos Tsiolkas, which explores a brutal clash of cultures, dreams and expectations and the relentless demands that are placed upon young athletes, their families, friends, schools and coaches.
The series is a Matchbox Pictures production in association with ABC Television, Screen Australia and Film Victoria.
Set from 1996, Danny Kelly is a talented swimmer who attends a prestigious Melbourne private school on a sporting scholarship.
He is taken under the wing of highly regarded coach Frank Torma and develops a friendship/rivalry with teammate Martin Taylor which inspires Danny to become a world record holder.
[4] Internationally, the series was acquired in the United Kingdom by BBC Three, in South Africa by Dstv[10] and Skai TV in Greece.