IT will be Laetisha Scanlan’s birthday on the day she opens fire on her Commonwealth Games campaign — though she hopes it’s not the only reason to celebrate.

With just five days until the Games, the Victorian golden girl is eager to earn another place on the podium four years after gold in Glasgow.

But the Victorian Institute of Sport athlete said win or lose, she would be happy to compete on home soil.

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media_camera Victorian Institute of Sport athlete Laetisha Scanlan. Picture: Alex Coppel

“It’s funny, you would think as the reigning Commonwealth Games champion, I would be more nervous but I’m just going in with the approach that it is a chance to compete in front of friends and family. That’s pretty rare,” she said.

Scanlan said it would be a nice way to finish her Commonwealth Games journey after shooting was scrapped from the competition for 2022.

Her toughest opponents ­include reigning Australian Olympics gold medallist Catherine Skinner and Kiwi silver medallist Natalie Rooney.

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media_camera Laetisha Scanlan is heading to the Commonwealth Games. Picture: Alex Coppel

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But the 27-year-old said she wouldn’t let nerves get to her.

“Sometimes, it comes down to the luck of the draw on the day,’’ she said. ``I won’t let the pressure get to me. I just plan to enjoy the hype and the amazing atmosphere at a competition like this.”

The Games begin on the Gold Coast on April 4. It will be the biggest sporting event held in Australia this decade, with more than 6600 athletes and officials from 71 nations.

The 11-day event will showcase some of the world’s best sportsmen and woman in various sports including swimming, cycling, weightlifting and wrestling.

Australia has won more than 850 gold medals — more than any nation.

aaron.langmaid@news.com.au