Century Tuna to hold IronMan 70.3

MANILA, Philippines - Century Tuna puts up the big one after three 5i50 triathlon stagings as it holds the first Century Tuna IronMan 70.3 Triathlon on March 8 with an elite cast, headed by three-time world champion Craig Alexander, set to fight it out for top honors in Subic Bay.

“Century Tuna has supported the triathlon and fitness community in the Philippines for years now as a way of remaining committed to promoting a healthy and active lifestyle for Filipinos,” said Century Tuna general manager Greg Banzon during yesterday’s event launch at the New World Hotel. “We felt it’s time to offer Filipinos a bigger challenge that keeps pace with the expectations of the community.

“The interest so far, tells us that the inaugural Century Tuna IronMan 70.3 is met with high anticipation and excitement, and will soon be part of the triathletes’ calendar,” he added.

A record 20 professionals have confirmed participation in the grueling swim-bike-run event with Luke Mackenzie and Caroline Steffen joining Alexander in the early roster of entries.

“We expect a record participation,” said Wilfred Uytengsu, president and CEO of the organizing Sunrise Events, Inc.

He said the Century Tuna 70.3, which offers a total prize fund of $15,000, will also serve as a qualifying race for the IronMan 70.3 World Championships in Zell am See-Kaprin, Austria late this year.

Thirty slots will be up for grabs in the world tilt, according to Uytengsu.

The course includes a 1.9-km swim at the Sands of Triboa, a 90-km bike ride that will pass through Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) and a 21-km run through the whole of Subic Bay.

The race is sponsored by The Philippine STAR, Vita Coco, Gatorade, 2Go Express, Saucony, SBMA, Manila North Tollway Corp., NLEX, Bases Conversion and Development Authority, Endurance Magazine, Century Bangus, Sante Barley, Prudential Guarantee, Department of Tourism, Timex, David’s Salon, Smart, PLDT Subictel, Intercare, FinisherPix, Shotz, Devant and Belo.