As the pros in both the men’s and women’s divisions, along with the country’s seasoned triathletes and rising stars, gear up for Sunday’s IRONMAN 70.3 Lapu-Lapu presented by Megaworld, the spotlight first turns to the sport’s future.
The RLC Residences IRONKIDS kicks off the explosive IRONMAN weekend on Saturday, introducing young dreamers aged 6 to 15 to the thrill of multisport. These budding athletes are ready to battle for top honors and recognition in swim-run and run-only events designed to instill discipline, passion, and a healthy lifestyle among the country’s youth.
This year’s turnout has more than doubled from last year’s aquathlon roster, with over 600 kids set to compete across various age-group categories: 6-8, 9-10, 11-12, and 13-15.
The relay division will feature the 6-10 and 11-15 brackets at the Beachfront, Dusit Thani, Mactan. Run-only races for the 6-10 and 11-15 divisions add another exciting element to the weekend’s action.
Princess Galura, president and managing director of organizing Sunrise Events, Inc., emphasized the IRONKIDS’ role in sparking young athletes’ interest in sports and promoting healthy living, particularly in the host city.
“The IRONKIDS has been making a positive mark on Cebu’s youth for the past decade, serving as a springboard for future sports careers while promoting an active, healthy lifestyle,” said Galura.
She also credited RLC Residences’ partnership for helping strengthen their mission.
“We are getting better and bigger at every single race – from 200+ junior athletes in Palawan to 350 in Subic Bay, and now over 600 kids here in Lapu-Lapu,” said Karen Cesario, Senior Director, Marketing Head, and Chief Integration Officer of RLC Residences.
Race distances vary by age group: 6-8 years – 100m swim, 1km run; 9-10 years – 150m swim, 1.5km run; 11-12 years – 200m swim, 1.5km run; and 13-15 years – 250m swim, 2km run.
The relay events will feature – 6-10 years – 100m swim, 1km run; and 11-15 years – 200m swim, 1.5km run, while run-only races are set at 1km for the 6-10 group and 2km for the 11-15 division.
