Hauser not underestimating class of main Burleigh rival

MATT Hauser has been cautious about throwing much banter Brandon Copeland’s way as he prepares to try to usurp the reigning champion in today’s Burleigh Swim Run.

“I need to be a bit withheld because I know it’s his domain,” Hauser said. “He was born near the surf and is from Kingscliff. I grew up in Harvey Bay.

“Brandon absolutely killed it last year so it will be tough trying to beat him.”

Hauser, a 21-year-old triathlete who won gold in the mixed relay at the 2016 Commonwealth Games, will go up against his good friend and fellow Triathlon Australia squad member in the Open Challenge (400m swim, 4km beach run) at the event.

“I always love doing the Burleigh Swim Run,” Copeland, 23, said.

“It is a good opportunity to have some fun and blow some cobwebs out.

“It’s an unofficial squad championships for us so we will see who comes out on top.

“It’s not that often you get the who`le group together to have a hitout like this – it’s going to be fun going up against everyone.”

Copeland’s younger brother Bailey, 19, will also compete and be eager to dethrone his sibling.

Current triathletes headline the list of favourites for the open event, with Maighan Brown gunning to defend her crown, while some retired stars of the sport will feature in the female 30-39 years category.

Two-time ironman world championship bronze medallist Liz Blatchford, 39, will race alongside friend and two-time ITU world champion and Olympic bronze medallist Emma Moffatt, 35.

“We are in it for a bit of fun,” Blatchford said.