asn sports and fitness news . . .

Step aside Jaslyn Hewitt

PEOPLE will put themselves through all sorts of torture in the pursuit of fame.

Like queuing up for hours with 1500 vainglorious beefcakes for a chance to be on Channel 7's Gladiators gameshow.

The hallways of the State Sports Centre at Homebush were thick with the smell of Dencorub at today's auditions for the new version of the show, first seen in 1995.

Seven and co-producers Endemol Southern Star are looking for about 12 Gladiators and about 40 challengers.

Seeking one of the berths, as we revealed earlier this month is Jaslyn Hewitt, sister of tennis star Lleyton.

Those auditioning in Sydney came from all walks of life.

"We've got mums and dads and lots of personal trainers, bricklayers, scientists and lawyers because this is a great personal challenge," executive producer Lisa Fitzpatrick said. "It's the most fantastic combination of sport and entertainment."

Jessica Kazdera, 24, of West Ryde and Rosa-Maria Romero, 31, of Surry Hills, both fitness professionals, loved the original series.

"I use to watch it and now I want to be involved in it," Ms Romero said.

With his rippling biceps, security guard Jack Wetere, 39, of Liverpool certainly looked the part.

"I've been training for about 10 to 15 years," he said. "I've always wanted to take on Vulcan (from the original series)."

Gladiators will be launched early next year.