IRONKIDS Subic unfolds; IRONMAN 70.3 all set

SUBIC, Philippines — The stage is set for the country’s most exciting youth endurance race as over 150 promising young triathletes head to Subic Bay here today for the RLC Residences IRONKIDS.

From first-timers to rising stars, participants are eager to take on the challenge and make their mark across age-group divisions tailored to their level of development and endurance.

Tensions build in the boys’ and girls’ 13-15 age group as a strong lineup of young triathletes gears up to battle it out over the 250m swim, 6km bike, and 2km run starting at 5:45 a.m. at the Subic Bay Boardwalk.

Reflecting the event’s growing international appeal, young athletes from France, the United Kingdom, India, Japan, Ireland and South Africa are also in the mix, bringing cultural diversity and international flavor to the race.

Participants will compete in other categories, including 11-12 years (200m swim, 4km bike, 1.5km run); 9-10 years (150m swim, 4km bike, 1.5km run); and 6-8 years (100m swim, 2km bike, 1km run).

Meanwhile, a “new” race course stirs up the chase for top honors in the Century Tuna IRONMAN 70.3 Subic Bay tomorrow.

Race director Julian Valencia confirmed the changes, saying: “We have slightly modified the bike course and introduced a new run route to keep things fresh and exciting.”

The revamped course still features the signature 1.9km swim, 90km bike, and 21km run, but now with new twists and challenges to test even the most seasoned triathletes.