IRONMAN 70.3 Lapu-Lapu Triathlon Draws 1,400 Athletes from 55 Countries

The IRONMAN 70.3 Lapu-Lapu triathlon is set to take place on April 21, 2023 in Cebu, Philippines, attracting over 1,400 participants from 55 countries, including Olympians and world-record holders. The event will feature a 1.9km swim, 90km bike, and 21km run course.

Notable contenders in the men's division include Denmark's Daniel Bakkergard, the course record holder at IRONMAN 70.3 Dubai, and South African Rio de Janeiro Olympic bronze medalist Henri Schoeman. In the women's division, Britain's Lucy Byram and Dutchwoman Els Visser are among the leading competitors in a competitive professional field of 14 female and 13 male athletes.

The event, presented by Megaworld The Mactan Newtown and organized by the IRONMAN Group, coincides with Lapu-Lapu City's commemoration of the 503rd anniversary of the victory at Mactan. The race has gained a reputation as a premier triathlon destination in the Philippines, with the 10th anniversary of the event expected to deliver a spectacular experience for athletes and spectators alike.

Why this matters: The IRONMAN 70.3 Lapu-Lapu triathlon showcases the growing popularity and global reach of the sport, attracting elite athletes from around the world to compete in the Philippines. The event also highlights the historical and cultural significance of Lapu-Lapu City, as it coincides with the commemoration of a pivotal moment in the region's history.

Prior to the main event, the IRONKIDS aquathlon was held on April 20, 2023, drawing 254 young participants aged 6-15 years old to compete in various age-group categories. The IRONKIDS event aims to promote an active and healthy lifestyle among the youth and foster the development of future triathletes.

The IRONMAN 70.3 Lapu-Lapu features innovative enhancements to the swim leg, including color-coded buoys for improved navigation, and an engaging bike route that includes the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) bridge, promising a swift yet challenging course. The run stage offers a vibrant, festive atmosphere to boost the spirits of the triathletes as they push towards the finish line.

The event offers 45 age-group qualifying slots for the 2024 VinFast IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship in Taupõ, New Zealand, along with an additional 15 slots dedicated to promoting female participation in the sport. The IRONMAN 70.3 Lapu-Lapu is integrated into The IRONMAN Group's Season Pass and Flex90 offerings, providing athletes with more flexibility and race experience across Oceania and Asia.

Among the inspiring stories at the IRONMAN 70.3 Lapu-Lapu is that of 87-<a href="https://cebudailynews.inqu

Key Takeaways

• IRONMAN 70.3 Lapu-Lapu triathlon set for April 21, 2023 in Cebu, Philippines.
• Event attracts over 1,400 participants from 55 countries, including Olympians and world-record holders.
• Notable contenders include Daniel Bakkergard and Henri Schoeman in the men's division, and Lucy Byram and Els Visser in the women's division.
• Event coincides with Lapu-Lapu City's 503rd anniversary of the victory at Mactan, showcasing the region's history and culture.
• IRONKIDS aquathlon held on April 20, 2023, promoting an active and healthy lifestyle among the youth.