On your marks! Get set! Scrabble!

Yabbies are in training across the Fleurieu as the entries flow in ahead of Sunday's inaugural Best of Back Valley Yabby Cup. The excitement starts at 11am and will go all day at the Encounter Bay Football Oval. The event is part of the Best of Back Valley Big Bushfire BBQ and is part of a fun, delicious day out.

Ten heats will run before the Grand Final and an impressive trophy is on offer for the crustacean and trainer who nips across the grand final finishing line first. Elders Livestock Agent and local legend Tom Penna will call each race.

Early favourites include Tonx and Black Yabbier, with Leonardo de Pinchi also considered a chance. 

"It's a matter of technique," says cup organiser Bryan Littlely. "There'll be work to do to get the best out of each yabby."

All proceeds from the race and the festivities will all go straight to local CFS units and the Kangaroo Island Mayoral fund for bushfire relief. Bryan says the support for the event from local businesses and individuals is fantastic with everything needed to stage the day being willing donated.

Racing yabbies are still available to purchase on the day for $100. Anyone wanting to slip a marron in amongst the action in a Fine Cotton inspired move will need to pay $500 to make the officials look the other way. Children's races with nominal fees will also be running throughout the day.