Australia’s Gold Coast hosts the second round of the ITU World Triathlon Series on Saturday, featuring both Alistair and Jonathan Brownlee and qualification for the final British Olympic women’s slot in Rio.

The women’s race features Jodie Stimpson and Helen Jenkins, who are looking to impress British selectors to claim the third and final individual spot for Rio. Both demonstrated good form by winning medals in the previous round of the Series in Abu Dhabi.

Qualification requires evidence of ability to win an individual medal in Rio, and a nomination committee will meet following the race to review performances.

Stimpson, who won in Abu Dhabi and also in the ITU World Cup the following weekend in Mooloolaba said: “This is a massive race, which is unusual this early in the season, but I have taken a lot of confidence from my first two races this year.

“I will put in my best performance possible on the day, that’s all you can ever ask for.”

Double ITU World Champion, Jenkins said: “I have had a great training block since Abu Dhabi and feel like I have moved my fitness on. I need to put in a performance that shows I am able to podium at Rio. It’s going to be up to the selectors to decide on the athlete they want to take.”

Jonathan Brownlee had arguably his best ever race on the Gold Coast last year. This year he’s joined by Alistair, in what should be a thrilling start to the Olympic year.

The Brownlee brothers, supported by Gordon Benson and Tom Bishop, will want to set up a fast swim to ensure the pace is high right from the start. Spain’s Mario Mola is currently ranked number one in the world following his win in the opening round of the Series in Abu Dhabi.

Jonathan Brownlee said: “The Gold Coast race was one of my best ever performances last year so it’s brilliant to be back. The first race of the season always has a few unknowns, but I can’t wait to race.”

Olympic Champion, Alistair Brownlee, who underwent ankle surgery at the end of last season, added: “Jonny and I didn’t actually get to race together much last year so it’s great that we’re both here this time. I’m happy with how things have gone recently and excited just to get out there.”

The women’s race is up first at 12:30am UK time on Saturday morning followed by the men at 3:30am. Both will be live on the BBC Red Button and online. Highlights are on BBC Two at 1pm on Sunday (10 April).

British athletes ITU World Triathlon Gold Coast, 1500m swim, 40km bike, 10km run:
Alistair Brownlee, Jonathan Brownlee, Gordon Benson, Tom Bishop
Helen Jenkins, Jodie Stimpson