The Gold Coast SUNS have smashed the club’s all-time membership record previously set in 2020 with three days still remaining in the SUNS Shout Out campaign.

The figure of 16,492 set last year has been eclipsed, with the current number sitting at 18,823.

The SUNS are closing in on breaching the 20,000 membership barrier for the first time in the club’s history which would be a 21% increase on the 2020 record.

At the halfway point of the players’ SUNS Shout Out membership competition, reigning champ Nick Holman holds a slender lead over perennial contender Alex Sexton, with dark horse Charlie Ballard not far behind.

Holman is hunting a third consecutive Shout Out championship as the best membership recruiter at the club and said it was a familiar feeling being at the top of the leaderboard.

“I don’t think it’s a surprise to anyone really given the form and winning back-to-back,” Holman told SUNS Media.

“I'm thinking we're going to have to put up a statue if I can make it three on the trot.”

“I'm going to put in the work like I do every year and come out on top.”

Holman had a cheeky reply when asked about his closest competitor in the running for the SUNS Shout Out champion.

“There's a few, daylight is probably the biggest one and Secco (Sexton) probably next after last year's performance.

“Touk Miller might give me run for my money, I think he knows a few people.”

Sexton told SUNS Media it was time someone toppled Holman for the crown.

“I've said it a couple of times but he is a fierce competitor and he takes this very seriously,” Sexton said.

“It's his baby so I'm not looking to break his heart but I'm looking to give him a fair crack.

“He does walk around with a big head he's had a bit of media attention this week.

“But we both have the same ultimate goal and that's to sign up as many members as possible, and a bit of fun with it is always good.”

Click here to sign up for a Shout Out membership, starting at just $29.