Filipinos challenge world’s best in Powerman World Series

Powerman Philippines 2016. Randolph B. Leongson/INQUIRER.net

Filipinos test their mettle anew as they compete among the world’s elite in the Maybank Powerman Philippines World Series 2016 this weekend at Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga.

August Benedicto, John Chicano, and Emmanuel Comendador lead the pack for the locals which will compete in the 80-kilometer duathlon race, where they will be pitted against some of the best athletes around the world.

Some of the big names which will compete include two-time Powerman world champion Gael Le Bellec, three-time titlist Emma Pooley, and defending Powerman world champion Seppe Odeyn.

“We have a vision to link duathlon to health and vitality. Our long term goal is for runners to try biking, and for bikers to try running. Our aim is for the athletes to not just make or a sport but also a lifestyle and I think we’re close in bridging that gap,” said Powerman Philippines chairman Raymond Magdaluyo.

The elites will compete under the Powerman Classic, which will be 10-kilometer run, 60-kilometer bike, and another 10-kilometer run to finish the race.

Other duathlon races over the weekend also include Powerman Short (5-km run, 30-km bike, 5-km run), Powerkids (for ages 6 to 12), and Powerteens (for ages 13 to 19).

The race will also serve as a qualifier or the Powerman Duathlon World Championships, which will be held in Zofingen, Switzerland in 2017.

“The race will be very interesting,” said Magdaluyo. “I think out bets have a real chance to win since the Europeans aren’t used to our warm weather, and that’s where we can beat them.”

Magdaluyo also shared Powerman’s aim of producing a world class athlete through this race, saying, “I think we’ll be able to produce new breed of champions.”