TWENTY-TWO fearless women are set to push their limits in the Century Tuna full Ironman Philippines while a formidable group gears up for a fierce battle in the Ironman 70.3 Subic Bay events this Sunday at the Subic Bay Boardwalk.
Leading the diverse and determined lineup in the full Ironman is United Arab Emirates’ Svetlana Kovaleva. Competitors from Japan, Hongkong, Mexico, France, Great Britain, Singapore, Ecuador and Taiwan promise a thrilling contest of endurance in the 3.8km swim, 180km bike and 42.2km run race.
Local talents Sarah Erañ, Maryfel Aumentado, and Anne Nuñez, who topped the 18-24 age category in last year’s IM 70.3 Subic Bay, will also vie for top honors.
On the women’s side of the IM 70.3, a fierce duel is anticipated over the 1.9km swim, 90km bike and 21.1km run race. Contenders include Kath Lagunsad, Maypette Ng and rising stars Jamiya Mendoza and Audrey Reodica.
This year’s event, organized by The Ironman Group, has drawn over a thousand participants in various individual age categories and relay events, with coveted slots for three World Championships up for grabs.
The men’s competition will also be intense, with Czech Petr Lukosz gunning for a second victory in three years in the full Ironman race. Competitors from South Africa, Korea, Singapore, Portugal, France, Kuwait, Korea, Germany, China, Uzbekistan, India, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Switzerland, Italy, Thailand, Japan, Monaco, and the US will spice up the title chase.
Leading the huge Philippine contingent are athletes like Jemuel Clemente, who placed 13th overall in last year’s race, and Daniel Valdez, Ramon Abeleda, Gabb Rosario, Lexter Ansaldo, Rolando Alquero and Edgar Puruganan.
Young talents Enrico Pisuena, Carlos Dungao, Allen Santiago and Alab Adviento are also in the mix.
