Cobra Energy Drink Ironman 70.3, one of biggest and most complete triathlon exposition in the Asia-Pacific region commenced at the Mactan Newtown on the scenic island of Cebu.
Participated in by 2,782 registered triathletes from 52 countries, this triathlon has both former world triathlete champions, rising stars, and mere physical buffs. This year’s roster includes Pro elites: champs Tim Reed (Australian), Caroline Steffen (Swiss)/ notable is Pinay entry Kim Kilgroe (Fil-Aussie); Filipino elites: August Benedicto, Leanne Szeto champs; celebrities: (individual) Matteo Guidicelli, Kim Atienza, Bubbles Paraiso, Dyan Castillejo, Paul Jake Castillo, Ivan Carapiet, (relay) Piolo Pascual, Jake Cuenca, Kim Chui, Gerald Anderson, Enchong Dee, and Xander Angeles.
“Since its hosting in the Philippines in 2003, this Ironman triathlon has branded our country as a crown jewel of sports tourism in Asia. Such events mark the Philippines as a go-to destination for sports tourism in Southeast Asia,” revealed Tourism Secretary Wanda Tulfo-Teo during the media conference at the Mactan Shangri-La Resort and Spa.
“This event commences in 2017 as the banner year for sports tourism in our country. Such events rake in tourism earnings for our people as well as become excellent participative sports and fitness venue for all as there are some local and international celebrities who participate. One benefit is that each participant spends about US$ 3,000 and brings in three more companions as this is a lifestyle activity,” Secretary Teo added.
In line with these benefits, the Department of Tourism and its marketing arm, the Tourism Promotions Board, will host the Ironman Asia-Pacific Championship 2018,” the Secretary announced.
Ironman Triathlon’s course starts at the Newtown on Mactan Island where athletes battle it out for T1’s swimming. T2’s bike race traverses four cities of Cebu province forming the M-Loop for a headwind of urban Cebu. Finally, the running portion along Punta Engano has thousands of townsfolk cheering up to the last participant of the marathon race.
These well-conditioned triathletes undergo intense workout and desire for the greater challenge through the completion of these three continuous and sequential disciplines in this super-marathon. Individually, they compete against the grueling course and the clock for best time.
The ironman—the peak of all races tests a person’s endurance and speed by overcoming brutal physical efforts. Even its sprint or beginner’s version of half mile swimming, 12.4 miles cycling, and 3.1 running, Ironman 7.30 has been a prelude to this multiple-stage competition, which has gained worldwide participation.
Triathlon has been part of the Olympics program since 2000 and of the Paratriathlon in 2016.
Some of the oldest and best-known triathlon destinations are in France, Norway, the UK, Australia, and the US cities of New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Dallas as well as the states of Hawaii and Florida – all top tourist destinations.
With almost 3,000 triathletes participating in the Cebu Ironman, it is not far behind in terms of total numbers like 4,000 to 8,000 participants yearly for these favorite triathlete destinations.
Recognized since 2004 by international tourism publications such as Conde Nast Traveler Magazine as well as by Travel and Leisure Magazine, Cebu province is an archipelago of more than a hundred tropical islands within the larger Philippine archipelago of 7,107 islands.
It has its own distinct attractions which fit any triathlete’s needs, wants, and expectations for a meaningful and memorable travel experience – the refreshing coastlines, fine sand beaches, picturesque islands, native cuisine, local handicrafts, invigorating spas, diverse shopping, exciting nightlife topped by the talents and natural warmth of the Cebuanos.
