PHUKET has scored a coup by attracting the reigning Olympic gold champion to this year's Laguna ''Race of Legends'' triathlon on December 6.

To see the best in the world in any category is always worthwhile, whether it's an opera singer or an incredible sprinter like Jamaica's Usain Bolt.

Few world champions visit Phuket in their prime so the Laguna Phuket Triathlon organisers are entitled to be ''excited to announce'' that German triathlete Jan Frodeno will be competing here.

Frodeno won his country's first triathlon gold medal at the Beijing Olympics in August 2008, edging out the pre-race favorites in an exciting sprint finish to win a surprise gold.

Making his debut in Phuket, Laguna reports, Frodenos' presence will certainly ''add to the excitement as he battles it out with Australian defending champion Richie Cunningham and 2007 Laguna Phuket Triathlon champion, Massimo Cigana from Italy.''

Laguna's reigning women's champion Belinda Granger of Australia will defend her crown following her maiden victory last year.

Apart from an exciting race, organisers also anticipate the largest field ever at the Laguna Phuket Triathlon 2009. For the fifth consecutive year entries in the individuals race have sold out, with 950 athletes registered.

Fifty teams will be taking part in the team relay and there are still places left to enter the 6k Fun Run.

Further information: www.lagunaphukettriathlon.com

Registration is now open for the Laguna Phuket International Marathon, scheduled for June 13, 2010.