Nice challenge guys. As it was already said, I also say forget about poly count (unless you have a really, really crappy computer). You're doing a single model for a competition, not for a game, so I wouldn't worry about poly count as it will just slow you down...because you will constantly be trying to keep it low. And that will only make your model less detailed in the end.

Chirone, you have a really good start on your model. Keep up the good work.

amoeba, you have some catching up to do, but I'm looking forward to seeing some real progress from you. And I hope you do well with your web competition.