In the boys field, defending champions St Patrick's College will again be a contender, but it is not the all-conquering, national-calibre crew that we saw blitz the field last year. It has shown strong signs throughout the lead-up at certain regattas and deserves to be among the favourites.

Damascus College showed what it is capable of with a hugely impressive race in the Head of Schoolboys regatta last weekend, winning the A grade final by a couple of boat lengths. This is undoubtedly its best chance in its short history in the race.

Ballarat Grammar and Ballarat High School cannot be discounted either, showing potential throughout the season.

Ballarat Clarendon College have shown very good training form and if that can be translated to race day, anything is possible.

In the girls race, Loreto College and Ballarat Grammar look the likely favourites.

Ballarat High School and Ballarat Clarendon College have shown promise and on their day could definitely pose a threat, however, Damascus College is not expected to be among the top finishers.

Overall, it promises to be a highly-anticipated race. Some crews have proven to be more consistent than others over recent months, but with no standout and previous Head of the Lakes showing that anything can happen on the day, there looks to be a few candidates.

Meanwhile, race referee Eric Waller said the weather forecast would be beneficial to racing and the direction of the wind would aid quick times.

"The weather will be outstanding for a good regatta," Waller said.