Racing in Ironman 70.3 Geelong on Sunday, the Australian leg of the international Ironman series which he leads, is another step in the 25 year old’s preparation for another tilt at the real thing in Port in less than eight weeks.

But the youngest man to ever win a full length Ironman has another agenda too.

He is in the lead of the Half Ironman Series, but that could change on the day depending on results.

“I am only really going down because I am in the lead,” Berkel admitted.

“I am not really thinking about winning because Crowie (World Champion Craig Alexander) is going to be there.

“And really my focus is on winning in Port Macquarie.”

The young triathlete said with rumours rife that the Hastings may lose the hosting rightsto the Australian Ironman race, it had

only given him more

motivation.

“I really wasn't to win in Port Macquarie, it would be a dream,” Berkel said.

“So this weekend is basically a training run with the bigger picture goal not far off.”

The Geelong race has attracted a record field of 1150 individuals and 100 team entries.

Alexander is a standout favourite with the main challenge coming from 2008 champion Leon Griffin.

“Having guys of that calibre in the race makes it more exciting too,” Berkel said.

“But it is kind of nice to know that I am still in with a chance to win the series, but I will need results to go my way.”

Other big names turning out for the Geelong race are Matty White, Chris Dmitrieff, Clayton Fettell and Joshua Rix.

The professional field includes 20 men and 15 women.