TODAY’S SHANNON ECKSTEIN CLASSIC

MEN TO WATCH Shannon Eckstein

Australia’s greatest ironman in the countdown to his final race at the Aussie Championships at Broadbeach on April 7. Has the best ski leg in the field.

Caine Eckstein

Has set himself for the Aussies but has also targeted this. The sprint course is not always his forte but if he nails the start he could be a good chance.

Ali Day

The in-form ironman, winning the Coolangatta Gold, World Ironman Championship and the Nutri-Grain Series. Without doubt the man to beat.

Matt Poole

Great board paddler and swimmer who won the 2017 Nutri-Grain Series. Given a sniff in a sprint finish he could well steal the cash.

Matt Bevilacqua

The 2018 Nutri-Grain Series winner will race to the beach from Hobart after attending best mate’s wedding. Board specialist with nothing to lose.

Kendrick Louis

Aussie champion will be best NSW chance. Given a clean start will be in with a shout.

WOMEN TO WATCH Georgia Miller

Having a dream season, winning the Coolangatta Gold and the Nutri-Grain Series after helping spearhead the Aussie team to victory over NZ in the World Championships. The one to beat here.

Courtney Hancock

Knows this beach well and would love this one after sharing so many magical moments with Eckstein.

Maddy Dunn

Nutri-Grain Series runner-up. Thriving under Northcliffe Olympian Naomi Flood and is ready on her adopted beach.

Gemma Smith

The No.1 lifesaver in NSW in recent years who won this year’s state ironwoman title by a record margin. Arguably the best ski paddler in the field.

Brielle Cooper

The youngest ever to win a Nutri-Grain Series in 2018 at just 18. Doesn’t have a weak leg and if she is anywhere near the front will be tough to beat.

Lana Rogers

Is coming into her best form after winning last week’s Queensland Championship at Broadbeach. Always a chance.