AN intrepid field of endurance athletes, including 18 pros and a slew of age-group bidders from record 46 countries, braces for a fast, grueling race when the Alveo Ironman 70.3 Davao Philippines fires off on Sunday (March 26) at Azuela Cove.
Following Davao’s successful staging of the Ironman 70.3 in 2018 and 2019 ruled by Mexico’s Mauricio Mendez and Germany’s Markus Rolli, respectively, the 1.9k swim-90k bike-21k race will be held in the same course.
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Heading the cast in the centerpiece division, the only pro race slated this year, are Portugal’s Filipe Azevedo, Tuan Chun Chang of Taiwan and Aussies Matthew Tonge and Nick Carling, while the seasoned Dimity-Lee Duke and fellow Aussie Sarah Crowley and United Arab Emirates’ Lottie Lucas of United Arab Emirates are tipped to dispute the women’s crown.
“We have set a fantastic race at the same racecourse they have enjoyed while making improvements along the way. We have maintained a fast but challenging swim, a single loop flat bike layout, and a hot and punishing run course,” said race director Neville Manaois.
The event will be be spiced by the Girls Fun Run on March 24 and the IronKids on March 25.
“We are excited to witness the third conduct of this international sporting event here. The committee has assured that all necessary preparations are being taken care for the safety of everyone and for the smooth undertaking of the event,” said Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte.
Aside from the individual, relay all-male, relay all-female and relay mixed events, the event 18-24 age group competition as well as 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64 and 65-69. It is backed by Alveo, Petron, Lungsod ng Dabaw, Azuela Cove, Davao Light, Lightwater, Prudential Guarantee, One Sport and Cignal.
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