Pros dominate triathlon in Cebu

CEBU CITY (2nd Update, 2:45 p.m.) -- Pete Jacobs, who just competed in the Ironman Lake Placid two weeks ago, once again proved his power and speed after winning first in Sunday’s Cobra Energy Drink Ironman 70.3 Philippines at the Shangri-La Mactan Resort and Spa, Lapu-Lapu City.

Jacobs claimed the first spot in the individual category of the race for three consecutive years now. He clocked 4:07:38.

Coming in close second at 4:08:52 was Cameron Browne of New Zealand, who was declared third placer in last year’s Cobra Energy Drink Ironman 70.3 Philippines.

Third was Mathieu O’Halloran, representing the Philippines. He won first place in the 2012 Pico de Loro Triathlon, first place in Zambales Beach Games Triathlon, and also first place in Bantayan Beach Games Triathlon. He was also the Canadian representative to three World Championships.

In the women’s category, Caroline Steffen of Switzerland dominated the race, with her placing sixth overall. He came just behind male professional athletes like Jacobs, Browne and O’Halloran. Steffen is part of the Alaska Team TBB.

Declared second in the women’s category was Bree Wee of the United States, who placed third in last year’s Cobra Energy Drink Ironman 70.3 Philippines.

On the third place was defending champion, Belinda Granger of Australia.

The other professional athletes who joined the Ironman 70.3 Philippines were Erich Felbabel of Hong Kong (8th place), Amanda Stevens of the United States (16th), Michelle Wu of Australia (17th), Dan Brown (19th), Justin Granger, Ali Fitch, Terenzo Bozzone, Fredrik Croneborg, David Dellow, and Chris Leito.

The race Sunday was represented by 31 countries in the world. There were 1,340 athletes who competed in the individual category, while more than 200 joined in the relay.

The awarding of winners will be announced around 3:30 p.m. today, Sunday. (Sunnex)