A panoramic backdrop, mouthwatering cash prizes, and a refresher course in history await racers when Ironman’s 5150 race gets going in Dapitan, Zamboanga del Norte, this September.
“We always want something for everybody—we have short and long distances. And coming off a long race (in Subic) we hope that we have inspired younger and comebacking triathletes to do an Olympic distance,” said Princess Galura, president and general manager of Sunrise Events, Inc. during an online presser on Monday afternoon.
“Normally, newcomers find it friendlier to join short-distance events, so this is the perfect event because we have both the sprint and the standard distance for any age that may want to start their triathlon journey,” said Ani de Leon, a fixture of local races and a mentor to both the decorated Tri SND Barracuda and the Philippine national team.
“This is the best starting point. And this is also the same distance we [use to scout] those who might be interested or have aspirations representing the country in the future. This is where we examine those who have potential,” she added.
Firing off on Sept. 10, the 5150 race begins with a 1.5-kilometer swim at Punto del Desembarco de Rizal along Sunset Blvd followed by a 40-km bike ride from Dapitan track oval to Oyan and back. Capping off the race is a 10-km run around the Dapitan National Park Road.
Mayor Bullet Jalosjos raised the stakes with a P500,000 cash prize for the top finisher of the race that is being used to bolster the city’s chances of hosting a bigger race, like the Ironman 70.3.
Go for Gold Sunrise Sprint and the Noli Run, in honor of Dapitan’s adopted son and national hero Jose Rizal, prime the revelries a day before.
“I think the sprint race in Dapitan will spotlight future athletes. We’re going to see young racers that will make up the future of Triathlon Philippines,” said bemedalled national triathlete Kim Mangrobang.
“My tip for the beginners is just to enjoy the race, and don’t be pressured. I’ll see you all at the event,” said Tri SND ace John Alcala, the winner of last week’s Ironman 70.3 in Subic.