IRONMAN 70.3 Davao makes its much-anticipated return to the country’s premier endurance racing scene, promising a bigger, tougher and more compelling spectacle when it unfolds on March 22 in Davao City.
Marking its milestone fifth staging, the race signals Davao’s renewed prominence on the global triathlon map, highlighted by a redesigned bike course, the return of crowd-favorite team competitions, and strong backing from new and renewing partners.
Long regarded as the most competitive IRONMAN 70.3 in the Philippines, the Davao leg is once again expected to draw a stellar international and local field, with elite athletes and age-group standouts battling for podium honors.
The race features the classic IRONMAN 70.3 distance – a 1.9-kilometer swim, 90-kilometer bike, and 21.1-kilometer run – offering a grueling proving ground for first-timers and seasoned veterans alike.
What elevates this year’s edition is the introduction of a new bike course, designed to add a fresh layer of intrigue, strategy and difficulty as athletes chase speed while managing energy and endurance.
The revamped bike leg is expected to challenge pacing and technical execution, rewarding smart racing and disciplined power output, particularly under Davao’s demanding conditions.
Beyond the physical challenge, the race carries global significance, offering coveted qualifying slots to the IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship in Nice, France. These slots reinforce Davao’s status as a critical stop on the international IRONMAN calendar and a gateway for Filipino and regional athletes to reach the world stage.
In partnership with the Davao City government, the organizing Sunrise Events, Inc. and key stakeholders, the city ensures a safe, welcoming and globally competitive race environment for athletes and supporters from the Philippines and abroad.
These commitments were formalized during a contract signing and sponsors’ presentation confirming BYD as title sponsor and Aboitiz as presenting sponsor.
The partnership brings together BYD’s leadership in innovation and sustainable mobility with the Aboitiz Group’s long-standing advocacy for nation-building, community development and active living.
Also renewing support are FLIQ, Manila Bulletin, Amlan and ION, with RLC Residences once again sponsoring IRONKIDS Davao.
Adding to the festivities, 2GO will sponsor the Gwapa Dabawenya Run, with Sun Life as presenting partner and BLK as official sponsor, featuring inclusive 5km, 10km and 21km distances.
The race weekend also celebrates the return of Tribu Maisugon and Team Tents, highlighted by a P500,000 cash prize for the winning team, while the Bagong Bayani category honors individuals whose service and resilience embody the enduring spirit of IRONMAN. For details, visit ironman.com/races/im703-davao-philippines.
