THE 17th annual Xcel Cudgen Classic is on again this Saturday at what remains of Kingscliff beach.

The Cudgen Classic comprises a series of individual and team ironperson events for under 10 years through to under-17s.

The competition is a premier event for hundreds of keen junior surf lifesavers in South East Queensland and Northern NSW.

Individuals and clubs travelling from as far south as Port Macquarie and as far north as Noosa are expected to compete in this season opener.

With the long-range weather forecast indicating perfect conditions, the organising committee is expecting a big turnout.

Many Gold Coast clubs have indicated they are keen to challenge Northcliffe and Burleigh Heads which dominated the event in 2010.

For the NSW club competitors, including Cudgen, this is a matter of state pride.

They are keen to keep the trophies and medals out of Queensland hands.

Since there has been significant beach erosion in front of the Cudgen Headland SLSC clubhouse over the past 12 months, competitors this year will battle each other and the changed beach conditions in two water areas located north of the clubhouse.

Courtney Hancock, the winner of the 2011 Coolangatta Gold, will be presenting all of the medals on the day.

Courtney who is originally from the Sawtell club, competed at the Cudgen classic a number of times as a junior, she represents Kozzi Swimwear and Xcel surf craft who are both sponsors of the event.

Entries are only $30 and may be downloaded online at www.cudgenclassic.com.au.

Late entries may also be made on the day for an additional cost.

Registration is from 7am, with marshalling planned for 8am.

Competition is expected to commence at 8.30am and conclude about 1pm.

Each entrant will receive a T shirt and gift pack and will go into the Xcel Lucky Draw, which will be drawn on the day of competition.