Filipino triathletes look to shine in Ironman 70.3 Puerto Princesa
FILE–Satar Salem wins 2023 Ironman 70.3 Puerto Princesa. –HANDOUT PHOTO
Filipino triathletes are setting their sights on victory amid a mix of local and international competitors at the Ironman 70.3 Puerto Princesa this weekend.
To raise the stakes, an ₱50,000 incentive will be awarded to the top Filipino male and female finishers, while the Ironman-affiliated TriClub with the most participants will receive ₱200,000.
READ: Ironman 70.3 Puerto Princesa primed for big reprise
The Ironman 70.3 Puerto Princesa, organized by Sunrise Events, weekend starts Friday with the 2GO Princesa Run, a 5km women-focused fun run at Baywalk Park, with over 300 participants.
Puerto Princesa, now in its third year as host, has gained a reputation as a popular race venue.
Athletes will compete on a revised course, featuring a redesigned transition area for smoother logistics. The cycling route has been adjusted from three loops to two, aiming for faster race times.
READ: Satar Salem, Leyann Ramo lead Barracuda Ironman 70.3 domination
With 60 percent of participants coming from 42 countries, local athletes face stiff competition for the title and cash prizes.
On Saturday, younger athletes will compete in the RLC Residences Ironkids event, which includes age-group categories, a relay division, and a kids’ run aimed at fostering interest in the sport.
The main event on Sunday will see athletes take on a 1.9km open-water swim, a 90km bike ride, and a 21km run. The course is expected to test endurance and strategy.
Puerto Princesa is also introducing the Sunrise Sprint (S2), a short-distance triathlon aimed at beginners and returning athletes. The S2 includes a 750m swim, a 20km bike ride, and a 5km run, making it a more accessible race option.
