SPORTS-loving Dabawenyos, get ready to witness some of the world's best triathletes as they converge here for the highly anticipated Alveo Ironman 70.3 Davao in an out-and-back course from the Azuela Cove in Lanang.
The competition is expected to be fierce as close to 20 professional triathletes bring their A-game to this beautiful city, showcasing their talent and determination to vie for the top spot on the podium and their country's pride and glory.
Expect nothing less than a thrilling display of athleticism from world-class contenders Aussie Nick Carling who was a runner-up in the 2022 World Triathlon Long Distance Championships Samorin; 42-year-old two-time Ironman 70.3 world champion Michael Raelert of Germany; multi-titled Ironman 70.3 champion Dubai-based Portuguese Filipe Azevedo, world triathlon veteran Juan Pedro "Juanpe" Media Garcia of Spain; 2XU Triathlon Series champion Matthew Tonge of Australia; 12-time Europe Triathlon Balkan champion Ognjen Stojanovic of Spain; seasoned American triathlete Robbie Deckard who had competed in various international races; Taiwanese Ironman 70.3 champion Tuan Chun Chang; and world champion veteran and Japanese national triathlon champion Kaito Tohara.
Also seeing action in the men's pro event are Eneko Elosegui (Spain), Jayden Kuijpers (New Zealand), and Zsombor Deak (Romania). while competing in the women's pro division are Dimity-Lee Duke of Australia, who placed third in the past two Alveo Ironman 70.3 editions held in 2018 and 2019, Lottie Lucas (United Arab Emirates), Kona-Hawaii 2022 Ironman World Championships seventh finisher Sarah Crowley (Australia), Amy Van Tassel (United States), Lauren Brandon (United States), Ai Ueda (Japan), and Julie Iemmolo (France).
With an impressive 1,709 entries from 49 different countries (as of March 10) across various divisions, including individual men and women pro/elite, relay all male, relay all female, and relay mixed, the competition is set to be fierce.
But it's not just about the bragging rights - five slots for the world championships are up for grabs, adding an extra layer of intensity to the already high-stakes event. With athletes from around the world vying for a chance to compete at the highest level, the pressure is on for each competitor to give it their all and leave it all on the course.
After a three-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Ironman 70.3 Philippines' return to the King City of the South marks a long-awaited comeback for the triathlon community.
With safety measures in place to ensure a smooth and secure event, the triathlon promises to be an unforgettable experience for all involved.
From the swim in the crystal-clear waters of Davao Gulf to the scenic bike ride to Tagum City and back through the city's picturesque streets, and finally, the grueling run along the city's thoroughfares, the course is sure to test the limits of even the most seasoned triathletes.