The elite field is also looking strong with 40 entered into this category. The majority, aspiring professionals looking to make their mark in the Ironman world and this event provides them the ideal opportunity. For others it is a chance to match up against the established professionals and see how they measure up.

New Zealand's James Bowstead is returning once again in an attempt to claim that elusive top spot after finishing 3rd last year. 21 year old Joseph Lampe will also be looking to improve on his 4th place from last year. Lampe who hails Lennox Head in NSW has a great swim, run combination but the bike leg let him down last year.

Christie Sym from Sydney's northern beaches astounded herself when she placed second at last years' event after running down two of the sports best in Lisa Marangon and Sarah Pollett. The performance even more impressive in just her second ever attempt at the distance after making the switch from Adventure racing to triathlon and is looking to keep improving and learning ahead.

Also returning and intent on improving from last years' third place is Queenslander Sarah Pollett.

Tasmanian Amelia Pearson has also signed up for the event and will use this race as preparation for the upcoming Ironman Western Australia in November.

Other contenders will be Rebecca Eveleigh who finished fifth last year and Marion Prylik, always solid performers.

For more information on the Gold Coast Half Ironman please visit www.usmevents.com.au or call 07 3868 2444.

For further information or to arrange interviews or photographs contact, Lisa Pringle on 0417 005 743 or lisa@usmevents.com.au.