Big field answers gun in 70.3 Cebu

With close to 2,000 athletes already signed up, the Ironman (IM) 70.3 Philippines is ready to make its comeback in Cebu and provide a whole new racing experience on Aug. 7 in Mactan.

The field is a far cry from the usual number that has taken part in past editions, but the event promises to be the best restart to what has been an enduring triathlon series.

“We have overcome so many challenges to make this race possible and I think by being at the starting line for all of us—from participants, sponsors, government, it’s a start,” said Princess Galura, general manager of the organizing Ironman Group/Sunrise Events, Inc.

The grueling 1.9-kilometer swim, 90-km bike and 21-k run event will fire off and end at Mactan Newtown in Lapu-Lapu City, which has hosted a number of 70.3 races, the last in 2019 ruled by Aussie Tim Reed, also the 2016 Ironman 70.3 world champion, with Swiss Caroline Steffen topping the distaff side.

The Cebu–Cordova Link Expressway Bridge will provide for a new experience for the athletes for the bike leg of the race. The 8.9-km toll bridge freeway in Metro Cebu links the city and Cordova.

“It’s a bit hard bringing the IM 70.3 back to Cebu, but with everybody’s cooperation and support, we are just as thrilled and confident that we’ll be able to match, if not surpass the success of the recent Sun Life 5150 in Bohol,” added Galura.