World champs slug it out in Alveo Ironman 70.3

MANILA, Philippines — Four world champions and a slew of topnotch triathletes gear up for a fierce showdown for Alveo Ironman 70.3 supremacy when the premier endurance event is fired off March 25 at Azuela Cove in Davao City.

Aussie Tim Reed, the world titlist in 2016, Mexico’s Mauricio Mendez and Bradley Weiss of South Africa, the Xterra world champions in 2016 and 2017, respectively, and three-time Ironman winner Craig Alexander head the elite 26 pros, including 12 in women’s division, vying in the keenly awaited event backed by title sponsor Alveo, an AyalaLand company, and organized by Sunrise Events, Inc.

SEI Wilfred Uytengsu and Davao, through Mayor Sara Duterte, have guaranteed a one-of-a-kind triathlon experience, this being held in the region for the first time, with the event expected to further boost the economy and tourism of the host city.

“With its blend of nature and urban infrastructure, not to mention a course with unfamiliar terrain and challenges, Davao and Azuela Cove will surely offer a true test of triathlon for this world-class field,” said Uytengsu.

Other fancied names vying are Xterra champion Ben Allen, and Canadian Brent McMahon, a three-time North American Ironman 70.3 champion, while last year’s Century Tuna Ironman 70.3 Subic titlist Radka Kahlefeldt of the Czech Republic banners the women’s field that includes equally talented Dimity Lee Duke of Australia and Anna Eberhardt of Hungary.