Dwayne Kemp

Why/How did you get into triathlon?

I'm originally from a small town in South Africa called Port Elizabeth. For the last 20 years, the Ironman African Championships have been held here, and every year it's a massive occasion. Road closures everywhere, and people lining the streets. I used to watch it on TV every year and followed it all day. I was amazed at the stories of the age groupers and the sheer power and determination of the pros. I got to a stage in my life, with work and family, where I was very unhealthy, overweight, and depressed, and I decided that things needed to change. We had triplets 5 years before me started on my triathlon journey, and as you can imagine, no time for anything else but diapers, feeding, burping, and working. Things had to change. Not just for me, but for my family to have a dad in the future. I started training with a friend who always wanted to do an Ironman but didn't have the motivation. I was motivated and we started training. In 2017, we did our first 70.3 and the rest, as they say, is history.

What does it mean to you when you cross the finish line?

Race day and crossing the finish line is the reward for all the early mornings and time away from my family doing something that saved my life and keeping me healthy so I can be there for my wife and triplets (now 13 years old) for years to come.

How has triathlon impacted your life?

It has taught me that anything worthwhile in life takes sacrifice and hard work and that just makes it taste much sweeter.

What are you looking forward to in the Lake Whatcom Triathlon?

I heard that the crowds are amazing. Looking forward to the cheers and support, and hopefully motivating someone to be a better version of themselves.

Why did you sign up for the Lake Whatcom Triathlon specifically?

All the reviews were good, and I need to find out for myself.

What is your go-to post-race meal?

Burger and beer.🍔🍺