Tonight Olympic swimmers Steven Kent and Dylan Dunlop-Barrett will battle for first place in the State Beach Series swim event at Takapuna Beach.

Kent says competing in the beach series adds a lighter side to his rigorous training schedule.

"What I enjoy most about the State Beach Series is using my swimming talents to have some fun, getting out there with everyone and enjoying the nice Tuesday night weather down at Takapuna Beach.

"I am also the driver of the State Beach Series 1959 Beetle."

Kent says the series is a well-coordinated event.

"Online entries are easy, and on the race evening everything is always set up well. The Mairangi Bay Surf Lifeguards are also there to help out if needed."

In mid-November the 24-year-old Torbay resident returned home after competing in the Life Saving World Championships in Adelaide.

For the first time in 14 years the 12-strong New Zealand team won the event, leaving Australia in second place.

Kent is now working towards his next goal of qualifying for the 2013 World Long Course Championships in Barcelona.

Go to beachseries.co.nz to find out more.

- © Fairfax NZ News