In an impressive feat, Tier 1 registration for the highly anticipated 2024 IRONMAN 70.3 Lapu-Lapu event sold out in record time right after online registration opened on August 1, 2023. Marking its 10th year of staging the race on the Island of Mactan, the iconic triathlon, formerly known as IRONMAN® 70.3® Philippines, has undergone a rebranding and will take place on Sunday, April 21, 2024, promising an unforgettable experience for participants and spectators alike.
The IRONMAN 70.3 Lapu-Lapu showcases the breathtaking beauty of the Mactan Island and Cebu, featuring a challenging course that includes a 1.9km ocean swim, a 90km bike ride, and a 21.1km run. This year, athletes will kick off their journey at the picturesque sandy beaches of The Mactan Newtown property in Lapu-Lapu City. The route will lead them through the heritage streets of Mactan Island before heading to the iconic CCLEX Bridge, taking them to Cebu City, and finally back to Lapu-Lapu City.
Known as the Crown Jewel of Asia, the IRONMAN 70.3 Lapu-Lapu has garnered international acclaim, attracting participants from over 60 countries each year. In previous editions, race slots were sold out within minutes, underscoring the event’s reputation for providing an exceptional experience and a vibrant atmosphere.
Having commenced in Lapu-Lapu City in 2012, the race has evolved into both a fiercely competitive sporting event and a festive spectacle. The Philippines, with its warm hospitality, has become a favorite destination for athletes and spectators alike. Furthermore, Cebu City has proudly hosted the IRONMAN 70.3 Asia Pacific Championship twice in recent years, cementing its position as a prime location for world-class triathlons.
Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Junard “Ahong” Chan expressed his delight in hosting the event and showcasing the city’s breathtaking locations and unique adventures, making it an unforgettable experience for all participants.
“We work closely with the organizers of IRONMAN events to coordinate traffic management, emergency services, medical facilities, and other necessary arrangements to ensure the safety and success of the races. The support of our local communities has been the epitome of Philippine hospitality, and we look forward to a festive yet smooth and positive experience for participants and spectators alike,” Mayor Chan added on a press statement.
Last year’s IRONMAN 70.3 Lapu-Lapu saw a grand comeback, adhering to strict safety protocols after the pandemic-related hiatus in 2020-2021. The newly inaugurated Cebu–Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX), the longest sea-crossing bridge in the Philippines, served as a thrilling addition to the race, allowing athletes to traverse from island to island in a challenging looping course.
Ma. Cynthia “Cindi” Chan, District Representative of Lapu-Lapu City, expressed her excitement about the event fostering not only a wholesome experience for families and the community but also boosting local economies through increased international and local tourism. She emphasized that Lapu-Lapu City is not only a tropical destination but also an ideal sports and adventure destination.
Princess Galura, Regional Director of the IRONMAN Group Philippines, revealed that the race has witnessed immense growth over the last decade. With close to 2,000 participants last year, the IRONMAN 70.3 Lapu-Lapu continues to attract a high attendance rate, even during soft lockdowns. She added that they are particularly looking forward to more female participation this year, as the women’s field continues to expand.
The event is part of The IRONMAN Group’s 2023-2024 Season Pass & Flex 90 offerings, allowing athletes to participate in multiple IRONMAN & 70.3 races across Oceania and Asia while providing flexibility in race date changes without penalties.
Despite Tier 1 registration being sold out, there is still a chance to join the 2024 IRONMAN 70.3 Lapu-Lapu. The organizers have announced that registration is still open, and athletes are encouraged to register early to save on entry fees, as prices are expected to increase soon.
The IRONMAN® 70.3® Lapu-Lapu is supported by Global Premier Partners Vinfast, Active, Gatorade, Hoka, Roka, and Breitling; with Global Technical Partners Athletic Brewing Co., Fulgaz, Hyperice, Qatar Airways, Red Bull, Santini, Wahoo; Asia Supplier Partners Always Advancing, Compressport, Ekoi, and Nirvana; and Media Partners Outside+ and Sportograf. The event is proudly hosted by Lapu-Lapu City in partnership with Megaworld, CCLEX, and Santé.
Don’t miss the opportunity to be a part of this world-renowned triathlon event and witness elite athletes challenge their limits amidst the picturesque landscapes of the Philippines’ Island of Mactan. Register now and be a part of the legacy of the IRONMAN 70.3 Lapu-Lapu (with PR)
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