Deon Kenzie and Jacob Templeton have jetted off for Rio this week ahead of the 2016 Rio Paralympic Games, which begin on September 7. 

Templeton, from Devonport is set to compete in five swimming events at the Games and as he prepared to leave the country on Monday, said the excitement had kicked in. 

“It's only a couple of days until I leave the country now so it's really hitting home that I’m about to represent my country at the pinnacle of sport,” he said. 

“I've done all the work and all of the things outside of the pool which contribute to good performance in the pool and I have also done so with an open mind and a positive outlook with fun.”

​Forth distance runner Kenzie travelled to Florida for a pre-stage camp last Friday in preparation for the Games where he will compete in the 1500-metres.

“I’m absolutely excited the time has finally come,” Kenzie said. 

“It’s been years of preparation to get to this stage so I’m just super excited for the next few weeks ahead. 

“My preparation has been fantastic in the lead up to Rio. 

“Me and my coach Mike (Gunson) have really structured the last four year training plan around Rio to ensure I'm in the best shape possible. 

“It's just about doing the little one percenters in the next few weeks that can make all the difference – I’m pretty confident and really focused on running my best race.”