The King and Queen of the Lake titles are awarded to the fastest male and female competitors across the Aquathon, 2km Open Water Swim and the Sprint Triathlon events.
A favourite contender for the Open Water Swim this year is local Rotorua swimmer William Spear who won the event last year.
In the women's field, Jamiee Leader of Palmerston North will be one to watch, to take out the Queen of the Lake title, after winning the title last year. The King and Queen of the Lake will be awarded $500 cash, a trophy and a jade pendant.
Triathlete and coach Sam Warriner, who completed the Auckland 70.3 Ironman last Sunday, will be supporting the event by entering a large team of competitors in various events, and supporting the Kids Triathlon. Her particular interest is helping Kiwi kids develop into world class athletes.
"The Ecomist Blue Lake Multisport Festival has always been one of the hidden gems of the annual triathlon calendar, loved by everyone involved," said event organisers Margaret Armstrong and Nicky Dent.
"It is great to see the range of participants that compete in the event, from beginners through to elite triathletes."
Tikitapu will be open to recreational swimmers all weekend but closed to boats from 4pm until 6.30pm Saturday afternoon and from 7.30am until 9.30am Sunday morning.
Online entries were open until midday today at www.rats.org.nz.
On the day entries are accepted at registration, but include a $10 late fee.
