tough sport gently this weekend.

Adult novices can take part in a diluted version of the main event in the Pirates Port/Island Press Triathlon series at Clearwater Beach, St. David's, on Sunday.

Experienced triathletes will compete in a 750-metre swim, 20K bike, 5K run event, while beginners can try a 100m swim, 5K bike, 1K run course.

In the main event, teenagers Tyler Butterfield and Jonathan Herring will resume their battle for triathlon dominance.

So far, Butterfield has the upper hand and Herring is still seeking his first victory over his close friend.

Herring, the stronger swimmer of the two, will be looking for better luck than in the Tri Gatorade Triathlon two weeks ago, when he saw his one-minute lead over Butterfield disappear due to a wrong turn and a closed gate.

Karen Hackenberg will start as favourite in a women's field missing national triathlon champion Laurie Orchard and top veteran Kim Mason, who will both be competing in Panama City, Florida.

Robyn Peck and Claire Morrall are likely to be Hackenberg's closest challengers.

Promising juniors Nick Taylor, Chris Conway and Brian Steinhoff will all be looking for a top ten finish, while Mark Morrison and 12-year-old Matthew Herring should both do well after placing in the top 20 two weeks ago.

In the men's 40-plus category, Andrew Doble and Jim Butterfield are expected to contest the honours, while Derek Atkins will be favourite for the 30-39 title.

Ashley Robinson Roberts, who finished fifth overall in the Tri Gatorade, is the most promising of the junior girls, with Shannay Scott, Ashley Kirkpatrick, Chelsea Burns and Melissa DeSilva all also expected to do well.

Adam Petty, Flora Duffy and Tim Fox are hot favourites to win their age groups.

A tiny tots triathlon, for children aged between three and six, will also be held, starting at 9.00 a.m. Waterwings, tricycles and parental help will all be allowed.

Entry deadline is 5.00 p.m. on Friday.