Defending champions Greg Bennett (Australia) and Samantha McGlone (Canada) will be back competing for the US$20,000 professional prize purse against several other pros, including Massimo Cigana (Italy), Terenzo Bozzone (New Zealand), Laura Bennett (United States), and British newcomer Leanda Cave.

Both Bennett and McGlone, who were newcomers to the event last year and took home the winners' prizes, are looking forward to returning to Phuket. "I have been waiting all season," said McGlone. "It is one of my favourite races. Thailand is such a beautiful country and the people are fantastic. I just love racing here."

McGlone has had an extraordinary season and comes to the event fresh from winning the inaugural Ironman 70.3 world championships in Clearwater, Florida.

Bennett suffered some injuries earlier in the year, making it one of his toughest years, but he has recovered magnificently with wins at the 2006 Life Time Fitness Grand Slam series in New York and Los Angeles, and a 3rd place in Chicago, putting him in the lead for the Grand Slam series, which will culminate in Minneapolis next year.

"The entire experience at Laguna Phuket is fantastic," said Bennett. "Massages on the beach, the swim course, bike course, run course, the finish, the after party, the other athletes. It truly is the best triathlon experience in the world."

The triathlon is considered Southeast Asia's premier event and is also an Australian Ironman Qualifier, awarding 25 qualifying slots to the top age-group athletes.

Agencies

The Nation