JASON Kermeen is a physical education teacher who likes to lead by example.
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The Brauer College educator will compete in Warrnambool Tri Club’s foreshore triathlon tomorrow — just in time for the new school year.
Kermeen, 40, joined the club as a member for the first time this season after competing in the same event 12 months ago.
His message to his students is simple: have a go.
“We have some students involved and I always try and encourage them to do any type of activity,” he said.
“I talked to them about how I try and get out and do things. I got up and talked about how I was almost last in the last foreshore triathlon but didn’t care.”
Kermeen has immersed himself in the club since signing on, competing in its enduro, Killarney triathlon and aquathon criterium (as a team with wife Leah) in the lead-up to tomorrow’s 500-metre swim, 20-kilometre ride and 5km run.
“I am very slow on the swim. I am just happy to finish; I don’t think I will be a podium finisher,” he said.
“But I like going out there and doing it.
“Some friends and colleagues are involved and I was looking for something to add to my fitness.
“It’s a good club. It’s very encouraging and friendly for newcomers.”
Kermeen said he enjoyed the chance to work with Leah, who is a PE teacher at Emmanuel College, in the aquathon in January.
The father-of-three swam — his least favourite triathlon discipline — and Leah, a South Warrnambool netballer, ran.
The foreshore triathlon, which is expected to attract more than 100 athletes, starts at 9am tomorrow.
The men’s winner is expected to complete the course in under one hour — defending champion Kris McCartney did it in 53 minutes and six seconds in last year.
Lisa Worrall, the reigning women’s winner, finished in 1.06.26.