One of New Zealand's big gold medal hopes at this year's Olympics will come in the men's triathlon, when Tokyo bronze medallist Hayden Wilde will attempt to match the famous efforts of Hamish Carter 20 years ago.
As one of the best in the world across the distance, there's every reason to believe Wilde can replicate his compatriot's gold medal feats in Paris.
Last year proved to be a successful season on the triathlon circuit for the Kiwi, who finished second in the overall world championship series, while also ensuring he kept his cards close to his chest.
His only blemish was a DNF in the Paris leg, where a bike crash forced the Kiwi to withdraw from the Olympic test event, before a 10th placing at the World Triathlon finale resulted in runner-up finish in the overall championship.
"For us and I think that went really well, obviously that one hiccup in Paris, but everything else was super smooth," Wilde told Newshub.
As he gets back in the saddle for 2024, Wilde will have to be at the top of his game from the start.
"From now, I'm probably one of the guys that has a target on his back."
That's only spurred him on as he looks ahead to the Paris Games, where he'll have a chance for redemption in the 'City of Love'.
"I really love the top end pressure and hopefully kind of use that and hone that into hopefully bringing home a medal," he added.
To win gold, he'll have to overcome his greatest rival, Alex Lee.
The Brit has managed to beat Wilde twice on the big stage, most recently at the Commonwealth Games.
Bronze in Tokyo, silver in Birmingham- Wilde is more determined than ever to stand on top of the podium.
"As long as I can control the controllables that I can determine and put myself in the best position heading off the bike," he said.
"Hopefully, if the stars align, I can get the job done."
