DAVAO City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio launched the Alveo Ironman 70.3 Davao on Wednesday, September 20, that will kick off on March 25, 2018 at the Alcantara Ayala Land Property in Lanang, Davao City.
Duterte-Carpio, who was accompanied by Sunrise Events Inc. chairman and chief executive officer Wilfredo Uytengsu, Jr. and Ayala Land Inc. chief operating officer Aniceto Bisnar Jr., said this in a press conference held at the City Hall Conference Room.
"It is such an honor for Davao City to host for the very first time the staging of the prestigious triathlon in Mindanao, one that could bring the best swim, bike and run athletes from all over the world and all over the country," the mayor said.
With the Ironman 70.3, Duterte hopes to bring the world’s attention the beauty of Mindanao, the unique fusion of nature and urban infrastructure, and culture the island has.
"It is also an opportunity for us to show that Davao City and Mindanao is ready to host a high-caliber sporting events," the city chief executive said.
The staging for the event will cost P30 million, but Duterte-Carpio said that if sponsors could not raise the amount, the City Government will help subsidize to reach the target budget.
Duterte-Carpio added an executive committee will soon be formed to spearhead the preparations of the triathlon event.
Uytengsu, meanwhile, said they expect some 1,000 participants in its first year in Davao City.
He also said that 65 percent of the expected turnout are Filipinos while 25 to 45 percent will be coming from different countries.
Uytengsu also eyes to hold the Alaska Iron kids, a short triathlon for the youth, and a short fun run for women called Iron girls the day before the race.
"We hopefully get the community involve at the same time there's a lot of Davao-based triathletes. So my expectations after the first three years are to quadruple the numbers of triathletes and in the process help create a healthier lifestyle," Uytengsu said as he assured visitors will love the beauty of Davao City.
Bisnar, for his part, is elated with Ayala Land Inc. is becoming the main sponsor for the historical event in Davao City.
"We are very happy that our sustainable development in Davao City will be featured during the race," Bisnar said.