That sounds a bit too hot..
I have an Athlon XP 1800+ which is currently <slightly> overclocked to an equiv of 1900.
My MB is an Abit KR7a-Raid and my HSF is the awsome new thermalright AX-7 with a nice QUIET 80mm 38 cfm 29 db fan.
(my video card fan is the loudest fan on my system)
Currently my Temps are as follows:
System 27 - 28 C
Processor 32 C minimal load
Processor 40 - 42 C Full load
Some notes:
My Processor Temp sensor is a little probe that sticks up from the socket and ACTUALLY touches the bottom of the Chip.
I am using the VIA Chipset cooling Tweak (which really keeps the average temperature down-- This is a special tweak that you can do if you have a Via Chipset)
The standard HSF that comes supplied with a retail boxed Athlon CPU will not give you the lowest temps, but should be adequate provided you have good airflow through your case.
The HOTTER your chip runs at the shorter its life expectancy will be. Cooler is better.
The best place for you to get specific help with dropping your temps is to go to
www.amdmb.com and check out the forums under cooling.
Here is a link that talks about your specific processor :
http://www.amdmb.com/vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=114749
In my "opinion" you could do alot better. Good luck.