By Kevin Estrada
The Ironman Philippines will make its much-awaited comeback on Sunday, March 6 in Subic Bay, Zambales.
The triathlon capital of the country will host not just the full-distance edition, but also the half-distance Ironman 70.3.
“Subic Bay is thrilled to host the first IRONMAN event in Asia since the global pandemic. We are one with the IRONMAN team in ensuring the safety of all the triathletes and guests, as well as all the team behind the race,” shares Atty. Wilma Eisma, Chairperson and Administrator of Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority.
Forty-five slots are up for grabs in both races that serve as respective World Championship Qualifiers.
St. George, Utah will host the Ironman 70.3 tilt in May, and the main Ironman World Championships will be held in the spiritual home of Kona, Hawaii in October.
It is a relief for its organizing committee to return to the country, as it has to hurdle the challenges caused by the COVID-19 Pandemic.
“As we usher in the new normal, we are excited to hit the ground running and kick start IRONMAN races in the region once again,” said IRONMAN Asia Managing Director Jeff Edwards.
“We are committed to giving the same unforgettable IRONMAN experience our athletes have trained hard for while employing strict safety protocols to allow our athletes to race, with a peace of mind.”
Among those protocols that will be enforced are the full vaccination of athletes and competition staff, as well as mask mandates and social distancing measures.
“It’s going to be a sweet return to racing for our triathletes after two years of waiting. We are eager to see them give it their best shot, as they always do,” shared Sunrise events GM Princess Galaura.
“And to support our triathletes, we are doing everything we can to ensure their safety – with stricter protocols, guidelines, and requirements.”
Follow the writer on Twitter: @kevinlestrada
