Perrin Colley was born the same year that the West Coast Eagles were formed, and he’s hoping this might just give him the edge in this year’s HBF Health Fit Fans competition.

He is, however, the first to admit it might be a tough call given his track record – despite his best intentions, Perrin has historically struggled to stick with strict diets and exercise regimes. The chance to go to the Grand Final, though, has given him the incentive he believes will leave him victorious.

Perrin has changed his behaviour already: he’s walking to the gym, taking a stroll at lunchtime to keep active, and exercising more. “I’m trying to eat better too,” says Perrin. “I’ve cut down a bit on carbs, especially gluten, and I’m eating more fruit and veg. I’m also keeping my sugar levels up during the day so I’m not hungry at night and tempted to treat myself!”  

Perrin managed to lose 20 kilos a couple of years ago, but when he lost focus he stopped and the weight started to come back on. With the incentive of the Grand Final though, Perrin’s finding it much easier to keep on track. “I’ve already lost 5 kilos, and I’m close to being about the weight I was when I graduated high school ten years ago! For me, it’s about making the right choices, rather than cutting things out altogether. I still treat myself, but in moderation – having a little burger rather than a Big Mac, for example. That way, the cravings are satisfied, but I haven’t undone all of my hard work in one bite.”

This year’s HBF Run for a Reason is one of the little goals Perrin has set for himself along the way. He’s hoping to run the full course, which he’s never done before – and he thinks the hard work he’s putting in now will not only help him reach this goal, but stand him in good stead for that much-coveted overall prize too.