3-time amateur world champ to join in Ironman

CEBU, Philippines - Another high-profile athlete is in town to see action in the hotly-anticipated Cobra Ironman 70.3 Philippines this Sunday at the Shangri-la Mactan Resort and Spa.

Thomas Vonach joins the star-studded list of entries in the country's biggest and most prestigious triathlon event that will be hosted by the Queen City of the South for the first time.

Vonach has three amateur world championship titles tucked in his belt including the Xterra Maui in 2009 and last year and the Amateur ITU Long Distance Triathlon World Championships in 2010. He also qualified for the 10th consecutive time in the Ironman World Championships.

The 40-year-old Vonach will compete in the 40-44 category.

The other day, former Formula One world champion and current Vodafone McLaren Mercedes driver Jenson Button and his girlfriend/model Jessica Michibata set foot on Cebu soil. Button will show his stuff in the 30-34 age group, while Michibata will take part in the relay category.

Meanwhile, the registration for confirmed athletes will take place today from 2 to 5:30 pm at the Marquee of Shangri-la.

The swim course, on the other hand, will also be open for training from 12 noon to 5 pm.