ATHLETES from across the country will be at Gyllyngvase on Sunday as they battle for the National Aquathlon Championship title.

The beach in Falmouth is the host venue for the competition which will act as a qualifier for the World Championships being held in Chicago later this year.

Hundreds are expected to dive into the sea and fight for a spot in the English contingent which will head to the USA in September with the course consisting of a 750m swim before a 5km run.

Alongside the aquathlon, the Falmouth Triathlon will also take place with entrants completing a 20km bike ride on top of the swim and run.

Among those hoping to win the title is former European Surf Lifesaving champion Mark Lewarne, who believes Falmouth will provide a wonderful setting on Sunday.

Lewarne, a teacher at Penryn College, said: "To have a top quality event that is going to attract international and elite athletes is fantastic for Falmouth.

"People young and old can come down for free and watch a high quality field with many Team GB athletes going head to head.

"It’s a qualifier for the World Championships in Chicago in September so I expect we will see top athletes from ‘up country’ coming down and racing.

"The venue is great, the castle will provide the backdrop for the run, showcasing Falmouth in all its beauty, let’s hope we can put on a good show for the crowd watching."

Racing begins at 8am and entry is open for anyone aged 15 or over.

For more information or to enter, visit www.tempusleisure.org.uk.