Renowned coach Jamie Turner’s Wollongong Wizards squad will again use the event as their first hit out for the year giving competitors the chance to race alongside some of the world’s best triathletes.

All-conquering U.S. star Gwen Jorgensen will compete in her fourth Aquathon fresh off a remarkable undefeated season that saw her claim a second straight ITU world title and qualify for Rio.

Fellow Olympic qualifier Aaron Royle will also take part against fellow Rio hopefuls Ryan Bailie and Jake Birtwhistle who is gunning for his third straight win in the the event.

Commonwealth Games steeplechaser and fellow Rio aspirant Madeline Hills (nee Heiner) will contest the run leg while off-road traithlon power couple Ben Allen and Jacqui Slack will also feature prominently.

Shellharbour product Allen spends most of the year chasing the toughest terrain and competitors around the world but said the Aquathon remains one of his favourite races.

‘‘For me it’s one of the best events I do,’’ Allen said.

‘‘I travel all around the world to seek out the toughest competitors to challenge myself both physically and mentally.

‘‘To have that on home soil in my hometown...I couldn’t ask for anything else.”

Allen will come into the event in good form having taken out the inaugural Canberra Endurance Triathlon crown in December. 

The much shorter race will cover much calmer terrain than he’s used to but Allen is looking forward to challenge and even had a playful dig for the Wizards crew.

“It’s something I’m not used to but it’s a challenge I’m looking forward to. I’m hoping to stick it to the Gong Wizards and and really challenge them,” he said.

“If I can beat them I’m just going to rub salt in their wounds and say better luck next time.’’