Tasmanian and Triathlon South member Simon Direen entered the triathlon community from a football background, but is now feeling a huge sense of pride ahead of representing Australia in Wollongong.
“My first attempt at a triathlon was a local race in Seven Mile beach near Hobart in Tasmania,” Direen said.
“I lived in Seven Beach Beach and the local club ‘Trisouth’ had a sign up on the main road and I thought it sounded like a bit of fun.
“I’d just started to get back into doing some exercise after coming from a football background and was looking at how I might get myself a little more fit.
“It was a little funny really on the day as I had no idea what I was in for and they had to fish me out on the swim as I wasn’t going to make it.
“It was all funny really and they let me finish the bike and run which I really enjoyed, and it was from here I joined a local triathlon group and started swimming in the morning.
“The club I’m a member of is Triathlon South as it is now called, and without their local races and advertising I don’t think I probably would have ever attempted the sport.
“Since then, I have made lifelong friends within the club and still participate in local events to this day.
“I did stop racing for a few years due to ongoing injuries, but I’m pleased to say I am healthy again and back at it.”
First getting involved in triathlons himself, now many years later, the races he has completed with his family are Simon’s most memorable.
“I have completed lots of races over the years which I have really enjoyed but my most favourite memories have been participating in triathlons with my three boys with the help of my wife Michelle,” he said.
“Without her support over the years getting the boys to swim, helping to get us all to races, and helping us at races wouldn’t have been possible. Not to mention dealing with the likes of tired triathletes!”
After pausing his time on triathlon for a few years, Simon is excited to be back and is looking forward to the opportunity to race in a home World Championships.
“Coming from a state where we have a huge sense of pride when representing Tasmania, it meant a great deal and still does to represent Australia at any event,” he said.
“From my point of view, it really gives you that extra lift when wearing the green and gold.
“I always have found it motivating to have a race to train for when it comes to training in Hobart during winter.
“It can be a little cold down here for early rides and runs during winter.
“I think once you have raced for a few years there is less stress associated with preparing for a World Championships at home.
“When you first start, I think there is a real stress factor about applying and then representing your home country.
“But after being privileged enough over the years to be able to do this a few times you realise that all the other athletes feel the same and it’s just the best and most positive atmosphere to be a part of.
“Everyone is trying their best. Everyone tries to do as much training as they can in the lead up even though everyone has jobs, families and other distractions that can’t be ignored.”
The 2025 World Triathlon Championships will take place in Wollongong, Australia from 15 – 19 October 2025.
