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The name Mercer is synonymous with surf lifesaving in the Illawarra.
Darren and Dean Mercer have long been retired but an 11-year-old family member could be the next ironman, judging by his stellar performances for Austinmer Surf Life Saving Club.
Harrison Mercer and his buddies are achieving great results under the guidance of Jason Mercer, cousin of the two legendary athletes.
Jason joined the Austinmer club six years ago when his son Harrison was aged five. A couple of years later, he started coaching and took to it like a duck to water.
"I started coaching the kids in a few surf skills as I have a family history in the water.
"I only thought it natural to extend my knowledge to some of the kids who showed interest and that has brought some amazing results," Mr Mercer said this week.
Harrison has won the Illawarra Branch Championships sprint for his age group three years in a row and is chasing his fourth title later this month.
Lucas Ottaway has excelled in the water with wins in the swim at the branch and a fifth place in his swim at state level this year.
His older brother, Max, also places in the top three in his water events and brothers Ryan and Liam Epsom are in the top of the ranks too in their water events at branch level.
"All this from a club that is Australia's dominant boat rowing club and has only had a few other individual competitors over the years," Mr Mercer said.
The club has been a great help, he said.
"There's never any question when I need new gear, carnival entry fees and uniforms.
"They are 100 per cent behind me, especially Stephen Perkiss and Paul Epsom who helps with training sessions.
"But it wouldn't have happened if the kids hadn't tried their heart out every time they step on the start line and trained as hard as they do."
Mr Mercer is confident Austinmer will be successful in this year's Illawarra Branch titles.