Teri Hatcher in training for triathlon

Desperate Housewives star Teri Hatcher has started intensive training for the Nautica Malibu Triathlon.

Hatcher, who plays Susan Mayer in the ABC drama series, has set up a fundraising website and is aiming to collect $10,000 for her efforts.

The actress, 44, has been photographed during workout sessions in Malibu as she prepares for the running, cycling and swimming event, which takes place at the weekend.

She will be participating as a member of Team Disney and will donate her money to a children's hospital in Los Angeles.

"It has been an interesting time training for this event. I hope to offer other mums like myself inspiration," she said. "Being the do-it-yourself type, like many of us are either inclined or forced to be, I did not have a trainer."

Fellow Housewives star Felicity Huffman, William H. Macy, Anna Kournikova and Saved By The Bell's Mario Lopez will also compete in the triathlon.