Subic hosts Black Arrow 5150

Top pros gearing up for bigger battles and triathletes who love to do short-distance but challenging races in a world-class course setup mix it up for the inaugural Black Arrow Express 5150 which fires off Nov. 4 in Subic Bay.

The stellar international cast brace for another grueling test of endurance as they clash for honors and personal bests over the Olympic distance of 1.5k swim-40K bike-10K run race in what has long been considered as the country’s triathlon capital.

“Subic has tremendous infrastructure and has been incredibly cooperative in working with us and helping ensure the successful staging of each triathlon event,” said Wilfred Uytengsu, founder and president of the organizing Sunrise Events, Inc.

Held in partnership with one of the top cargo movers in the country, Black Arrow Express 5150 is billed as the answer to triathletes seeking to step up for tougher races or get the hang of the tri-sport, depending on their skill levels.

“The same commitment to finish to the ‘last-mile’ is often the most grueling part of the race. Same goes for Black Arrow which delivers to their customers’ doors by foot through rain and flood,” said Black Arrow Express president Allan Brizuela.

The event, backed by venue hosts Subic Bay and ACEA Subic Bay and major sponsors David’s Salon, Pioneer Insurance and Wicked Active Gear, also caps SEI’s decade-long staging of the premier endurance race. For details and listup, visit www.blackarrowexpress.5150philippines.com or sunriseevents.com.ph.

Close to thousand participants have so far registered for the event, including bets from 21 countries, with competitions up in the pro division, the Asian Elite and various age categories. Also on tap are relay events for male, female and mixed.

The second Sunrise Sprint short distance race series or S2 will also be staged, a 750-m open water swim, 20K bike ride, 5K run race which is fit for beginners wanting to immerse themselves into triathlon, for enthusiasts who wants to race without having to worry about long periods of training, or for the tri-warrior who has been off the circuit and is raring to make a comeback.

Backing the event are TYR (official swim cap), GU (official energy gel), Active Network (official registration partner), marketing partners Alaska, AlcoPlus, Cetaphil, DeVant, Nuun, PLDT Subictel, Smart, Sanicare, Regent, Storck and Timex and media partners Hyper HD, Cignal, The Philippine Star, AsiaTri.com and Finisher Pix. (SNL)

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Betten beats ’em all again for 3-peat in Regent 5150

Subic Bay Freeport - Sam Betten came through with a hot performance on a cold, rainy Sunday to complete a golden treble in the Regent 5150 Triathlon here.

Pouncing on the relatively cooler conditions on a turf he’s familiar with, Betten left his challengers playing catch-up throughout the 1.5K swim, 40K bike, 10K run and reached home unmolested for his milestone three-peat.

Sam Betten winning his third Regent 5i50 title (photo from Regent 5i50 Facebook page)

Betten covered the wet course in 1:55:58, checking in nearly five minutes ahead of compatriot Mitch Robins (2:00:27), who settled for No 2 again. American Iain Alexandrinis (2:01:46) took third.

“I’ve never won a race three times in a row and to come here and do that, it’s pretty amazing,” said Betten, getting a loving hug from girlfriend Rebecca Ohlwein after crossing the finish line.

The 6-foot-4 Betten emerged from the waters of Acea Beach after 19 minutes, 57 seconds with Robins (21:30) and Alexandrinis (21:34) on his wake. Notwithstanding the rains that made the roads slippery, the Aussie out-pedaled his rivals and even added two minutes to his lead as they headed into the culminating run towards Remy Field.

“I felt really good out there. The heat wasn’t too bad so I didn’t have to push quite hard (than usual), which was really advantageous to me. If it were really, really hot, it would have been a different story,” said Betten, who’s developed a fondness for Subic, where he’s raced five times overall.

“Subic Bay is one of my favorite places in the world to come race in. I was lucky this year I was able to bring my girlfriend along to watch the race and enjoy Subic. For me, this is such a great triathlon location and it’s a dream come true to be able to dominate for three years in a row,” he said. (Olmin Leyba, Philippine Star)

Read more: http://www.philstar.com/sports/2017/06/05/1706859/betten-beats-em-all-again-3-peat-regent-5150

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Huge field gears up for Regent 5150 in Subic Bay

Organizers of the Regent 5150 Triathlon brace for a record field clashing for top honors in the local version of the world’s largest Olympic distance triathlon series, which stages its third edition on June 4 in Subic Bay.

Six hundred forty entries have so far entered in the main event while around 300 have registered for the side event Sunrise Sprint, a short distance race series put up by the organizing Sunrise Events, Inc. last year, with the roster expected to swell 10 days before the event.

For details and listup, visit regent.5150philippines.com.

Sam Betten headlines the elite field in the men’s pro division with the top 6-4 Australian triathlete gunning for a three-peat against the likes of fellow Aussies and veterans Ben Allen, the 2016 Australian ITU Cross Triathlon champion and a former XTERRA As-Pac titlist, Mitch Robins and Dan Brown.

American Iain Alexandridis, a consistent top 10 Ironman 70.3 finisher, is also in the hunt in the 1.5k swim, 40k bike and 10k run event sponsoored by the country’s leading snack manufacturing company.

Focus will also be on the women’s pro side with veteran campaigner and be-medalled triathlete Dimity-Lee Duke, also of Australia, Hungarian Anna Eberhardt, and Kerry Mulholland and Annelies Jeffries, also both from Down Under, disputing the crown won by absentee Amelia Watkinson of New Zealand last year.

The event will also feature the Alaska Ironkids Philippines, featuring the country’s future triathlon stars on June 3 at the WOW Recreation and Activity Center/Remy Field.

Inspired by its successful inaugural last year, the Sunrise Sprint, a 750m swim, a 20k bike and a 5k run, will again be held for beginners wanting to immerse themselves into triathlon racing, a tri warrior who has been off the circuit and out to make a comeback or simply a triathlon enthusiast.

Backers of the event are Dept. of Tourism Region 3 and Tourism Promotions Board as presentors, Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority as host venue and Acea Subic Bay as host hotel, along with 2GO Express, Powerade and Wilkins Pure, TYR, Hoka One, Active Network, Philippine Star, Trilife, AsiaTRI.com, Finisher Pix, HyperHD on Cignal, AlcoPlus, Autohub, Cetaphil, Daylong, Devant, Omega, PLDT Subictel, Sanicare, Storck, Garmin, Alaska, David’s Salon, GU, Intercare, Pioneer Insurance and Sante Barley, the Lighthouse Marina Hotel, Court Meridian, Subic International Hotel and Active Network.

PHOTO:
Aussie triathlete Sam Betten flashes the No. 1 sign as he celebrates after crossing the finish line at the Remy Field during last year's 5150 triathlon held at Subic Bay Freeport. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

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Betten, Watkinson dominate Regent 5150 in Subic Bay

Australian Sam Betten retained the men’s pro crown while Kiwi Amelia Watkinson reigned in the women’s side as they scored wire-to-wire triumphs in the 2016 Regent 5150 Triathlon on a hot and humid Sunday in Subic.

Betten tackled the challenging 1.5K swim, 40K bike, 10K run course in two hours, six minutes and 55 seconds to capture the coveted title for the second straight year with plenty to spare.

His compatriot, Mitch Robins, finished a far second with 2:21:27, his bid hurt by two flat tire mishaps in the bike leg, while Slovak Michal Bucek took third place in the local version of the world’s largest Olympic distance triathlon series with his 2:24:38 effort.

Watkinson checked in at 2:10:59 – just a few minutes after Betten – to run away with the women’s tiara, beating Aussies Michelle Duffield (2:22:03) and Dimity-Lee Duke (2:24:38).

Paul Jumamil topped the Filipino male elite category with 2:19:08 – the third best time across all divisions. August Benedicto crossed the finish line six seconds later to settle for second while Banjo Norte wound up No. 3 with 2:20:28. Maria Danielle Infantado (2:50:50) beat Amale Jopson (3:08:24) for the Filipino female elite crown.

“It’s tough to win any race and it’s even tougher to win it twice in a row so this is really very special,” said Betten after accomplishing his mission in the event produced and organized by Sunrise Events, Inc. in partnership with Regent Foods, the country’s leading snack manufacturing company.

The 28-year-old Betten came out of the waters at Acea Beach first and didn’t relinquish control all the way to the ride along the undulating and hot roads of Subic Bay and the finish at Remy Field.

Robins, who was touted to contend, fell behind as he had to fix a flat front tire not once but twice. “It’s a disaster but it happens,” he said.

Thailand-based Kiwi Watkinson maintained a blistering pace that left her two rivals gasping.

“I got my own space straight out of the gun, swam consistently and picked it up on the way home. I had a fast transition out on the bike and eased into it, making sure I kept the pace quite even,” she said.

PHOTOS:

[1] Australian triathlete Sam Betten negotiates the runway of the Subic Bay International Airport as he defends his 2015 men’s title during the 5150 triathlon held Sunday morning (June 05) at Subic Bay Freeport. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

[2] Australian triathlete Sam Betten cools himself after crossing the finish line at the Remy Field during the 5150 triathlon held Sunday morning (June 05) at Subic Bay Freeport. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

[3] Aussie triathlete Sam Betten flashes the No. 1 sign as he celebrates after crossing the finish line at the Remy Field during the 5150 triathlon held Sunday morning (June 05) at Subic Bay Freeport. (AMD/MPD-SBMA)

http://www.manilatimes.net/betten-watkinson-dominate-regent-5150/266091/

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Subic Freeport hosts 2016 Regent 5i50

AUSTRALIAN Sam Betten banners a crack field racing for top honors in the 2016 Regent 5150 Triathlon, the local version of the world’s largest Olympic distance triathlon series, set on June 5 in Subic.

The 6-foot-4 Betten sets out to retain the male pro crown against compatriots Mitch Robins, winner of the first Safeguard 5150, and Dan Brown and Slovakia’s Michal Bucek in the race organized by Sunrise Events, Inc. in partnership with the country’s leading snack manufacturing company, Regent Foods.

Australia’s 2015 runner-up Dimity-Lee Duke tries to strike gold this time as she battles Kiwi Amelia Rose Watkinson and Aussie Michelle Duffield for the female pro crown, which is now an open race after the retirement of champ Belinda Granger from pro racing.

Competitors in the Filipino elite male and female divisions and age-groupers also showcase their competitive spirit and skills in the 1.5K open-water swim at the Acea Beach, 40K bike and 10K run along the undulating and hot roads of Subic Bay.

The Regent 5150 Triathlon is considered as the answer to triathletes who love to do short-distance but challenging races in a world-class production setup.

Spicing up this year’s race is the inaugural Sunrise Sprint run. Also known as S2, the race features a 750m open-water swim, 20km bike ride and a 5km run for beginners.

“It is perfect for beginners wanting to immerse themselves into the sport of triathlon for the first time, for triathlon enthusiasts who wants to race without having to worry about long periods of training or for the tri warrior who has been off the circuit and is raring to make a comeback,” said Sunrise president Wilfred Uytengsu.

PHOTO:
The Regent 5150 PRO Race will feature Sam Betten defending his title, as well as Will Dimity competing for this year's Female PRO Champion title. (photo from Regent 5i50 Facebook page)

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Betten leads Aussie sweep in Regent 5i50

SUBIC, Philippines – Australian Sam Betten struck gold on his second race in the Philippines, besting tough compatriots Mitch Kibby and Casey Munro for the coveted men’s pro crown of the inaugural Regent 5i50 Triahlon on an cloudy Sunday morning here.

The 6-foot-4 Betten stayed close to the pacesetters in the swim and bike phase then shifted to high gear in the concluding run to reach the finish line at Remy Field in 1:59:23.4.

Youthful Kibby placed No. 2 with 2:01:24 while Munro, who was out to nail his second 5i50 title in Subic, settled for third with 2:01:31.2. Clayton Fettell was fourth with 2:04:36.8 followed by Subic resident Michael Murphy (2:09:03.3).

“I finished second when I raced for the first time in the Philippines in Cebu Ironman 70.3 last year so I really wanted to go one better and try to go for a win today,” said Betten.

He came into the 1.5K swim, 40K bike,10K run race organized by Sunrise Events and backed by Regent Foods with a concrete plan and stuck with it.

“I swam conservatively and I rode with the boys who were riding really hard. Then on the run I just went for it, ran as hard as I could,” said Betten.

Kibby overtook two others to cop silver on his Phl debut.“I was alone in fourth (in the bike) and the strong three up front are gaining time on me. But I knew if I could maintain my own race, I could run well,” said the former football and cricket player.

Despite the overnight rains and the morning overcast, Munro found the heat too much. “It was really hot like last year. I got a pretty good group with Clayton (Fettel) and Sam. It was a hard race, an honest race, and the best person won.”

As motivated to emerge victorious was grizzled veteran Belinda Granger, who got her usual spot on the winners’ podium after posting 2:21:46.8 against younger rivals Dimity-Lee Duke of Australia (2:23:24.8) and local bet Monica Torres (2:25:07.2). Thai Carole Fuchs wound up fourth at 2:34.00.

Granger felt Subic was her turf, having won two previous 5i50 races here in 2012-13 before settling for bridesmaid to Caroline Steffen last year.

“It’s no secret that this has been my race. I won two years in a row and when Caroline came and I got second last time, I was a little bit peeved off. So it’s really nice to have a comeback this year and take the win (again),” said Granger.

She outran younger legs Duke and Torres.

“For the first time all year, I actually felt like I was racing in the run. That made the difference. I’ve been swimming and biking well all year but I don’t get the run down every single time. But today, I was happy to have a great run and I was able to hold off Dimity and Monica who also had a spectacular race,” said Granger.

Duke said she suffered bum stomach the past two days. “I really had to fight my way to the finish so I’m pretty happy I’ve come in second against one of my idols and one of the best women in the sport,” she said.

Torres, meanwhile, banked on her familiarity with her “home course” to land a podium finish.

“I live in Subic so I’m very familiar with the course and I’m happy to come in third for the pro women’s,” she said.

Alaska Tri Aspire’s Banjo Norte (2:07:56) and LC Langit (2:34:58) emerged as the top male and female Filipino elite competitors.

The winners received their trophies from Ironman Asia Pacific COO Jane Patterson, Sunrise president Wilfred Uytengsu, and Regent brand manager Jennifer See. (Olmin Leyba, The Philippine Star)

PHOTO:
Sam Betten of Australia won the men’s professional division of the Regent 5i50 Triathlon held at Subic Bay, Zambales. (Jun Mendoza)

http://www.philstar.com/sports/2015/06/08/1463516/betten-leads-aussie-sweep-regent-5i50

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Inaugural Regent 5i50 triathlon race lures top-notch field to Subic Bay

THE inaugural Regent 5i50 Triathlon blasts off on Sunday in Subic Bay featuring top-notch pros, Filipino elite, age groupers and relay competitors.

Aussies Casey Munro, Justin Granger, Clayton Fettell, Belinda Granger, and Dimity Lee-Duke and Thai Carole Fuchs lead a crack field of foreign pros vying for top honors in the 1.5K swim, 40K-bike and 10K-run race.

Banjo Norte, Jenny Guerrero, and LC Langit topbill the Filipino elite competitors while Kim Atienza, Matteo Guidicelli, Victor Basa and Onemig Bondoc are among the celebrities who signed up for event sponsored by Regent Foods, the leading snack manufacturing company in the Philippines.

“We commend Regent Foods for joining the ever-growing list of backers of this popular three-sport athletic competition. With a talent-laden international field, we expect a world-class competition since the event also serves as a fitting tune-up for those competing in the Ironman,” said Wilfred Uytengsu, president of the organizing Sunrise Events, Inc.

Regent 5i50 feature a challenging 1.5K one-loop, rectangular, clockwise swim at the waters of the Subic Bay Boardwalk, a 40km point-to-point bike ride to the Subic International Airport, heading to IDESS up to Tarlac Road and head back to Transition 2 in Remy Field.

The 10km run will start from Transition 2 in Remy Field and then head on to the first turn around Dewey Ave. then head back to Remy Field and then go to Rizal Highway entering Argonaut Highway for the second turn around and then back to Remy Field.

Athlete registration, race pack claiming and race briefing activities will be held on Friday and Saturday for the two-day pre-event backed by 2Go Express, official courier and logistics partner, Sante Barley, Newton Running, PLDT Subictel, TYR, Coca Cola Femsa, Garmin, David’s Salon, Shotz, Smart, Pioneer Insurance, The Philippine Star, Multisport Magazine, Intercare, Department of Tourism, Tourism Promotions Board and venue host Subic Bay.

For details, log on to www.regent.5i50philippines.com. (spin.ph)

http://www.spin.ph/triathlon/active-lifestyle/regent-5150-triathlon-subic-b-brege-banjo-norte-jenny-guerrero-lc-langit-kim-atienza-matteo-guidicelli-victor-basa-onemig-bondoc-casey-munro-justin-granger-clayton-fettell-belinda-granger-dimity-lee-duke-thai-carole-fuchs

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Regent 5150 triathlon fires off June 7

Regent Foods Corporation will host the 5150 Triathlon at the Subic Bay on June 7, Sunrise Events, the organizer of the race, announced on Wednesday at the Dusit Thani Hotel in Makati City.

Started in 2011 by the World Triathlon Corporation, The 5150 is a triathlon that consists of a 1.5-kilometer swim, 40-kilometer bike ride, and 10 kilometer run that sums up to a distance of 51.50 kilometers, hence the name. The first 5150 in the Philippines was held on June 2013 at the same venue and this year’s edition of the event is expected to attract 1,000 participants.

Professional triathletes from around the world have signed up for the foreign entries category including top Australian triathletes Casey Munro, Justin Granger and Clayton Fettell.

“Our aim with this event is to encourage even more people to adopt a healthy lifestyle and embrace multisport training and racing. While we recognize that people may have an Ironman or Ironman 70.3 event as a ‘bucket list’ item, we also realize that you need to start somewhere and this event does exactly that,” said Sunrise Events President Wilfred Uytengsu.

The swimming segment—a rectangular clockwise swim would take place at the Subic Bay Boardwalk. The competitors would then engage in a 40-kilometer bike race from Subic International Airport going to IDESS, then up to Tarlac Road then back to Remington Field. The final part of the event would be the 10-kilometer run that would start and end at Remy Field, going through Rizal Highway, Dewey Avenue, and the Argonaut Highway.

Uytengsu also assured participants that they would see to it that the Subic Bay Boardwalk is safe for swimmers. The safety of the area became questionable the past years because of power plants located nearby.

“We have suspended swim, the last time I think was in 2008, because of the condition of the water coming from Olongapo. Since then it has been addressed by the new administration of the city of Olongapo,” said Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority Director Raul Marcelo,

“We tested it last April. The test results show that the water is swimmable, but we want to make sure come race time so we’re testing it again this May,” said Marcelo, adding that the test results would arrive by next Thursday. (Czar Nicholas Elcano, Manila Times)

http://www.manilatimes.net/regent-5150-triathlon-fires-off-june-7/183223/

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1,800 triathletes troop to Subic for 5i50 triathlon

Over 1,800 triathletes arrived in this free port for the 2014 Century Tuna 5i50 Triathlon on Sunday, marking the biggest number of participants in any Olympic-distance race to be held in the country.

In the third straight year that Subic has hosted the race, participating athletes again pitted themselves against a challenging course set against the picturesque locale and well-preserved environment of this former military base.

Among last Sunday’s racers, Australian Casey Munro topped the men’s pro elite division after completing the course which involved a 1.5-kilometer swim leg, 40-kilometer bike leg, and 10-kilometer run course.

Munro, who placed fifth in the Ironman 70.3 Busselton and Geelong competitions, finished the race in 2 hours, 7 minutes and 22 seconds.

Coming in at second was fellow Australian and last year’s third placer Michael Murphy, who clocked in at 2:08:26, while 2008 Olympian Simon Agoston placed third with 2:09:13.

Caroline Steffen, who won this year’s Ironman Australia Asia-Pacific tourney, led the women’s pro elite division with 2:15:32, followed by Australian Belinda Granger with 2:25:05, and Monica Torres of the
Philippines with 2:28:20.

Jonard Saim led the local triathletes by topping the Filipino men’s elite with 2:13:45, followed by Banjo Norte with 2:14:46, and last year’s winner John Leerams Chicano with 2:15:20.

The Subic Bay Freeport has been earning raves as the triathlon capital of the Philippines after playing host to several major triathlon events like the Subic International Triathlon and the 2014 Family Challenge Philippines.

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority Chairman Roberto Garcia said the agency has been maintaining the beauty of the free port and building better facilities and accommodations to further develop Subic as a premier sporting and tourist destination. (FMD/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTOS:
"Mermaids" and “Ironman” on flyboard provide entertainment for spectators and triathletes at the start of the 2014 Century Tuna 5i50 Triathlon held at the Subic Bay Freeport on June 29.

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Swiss, Aussie rule Century Tuna 5150 triathlon

Subic Bay, Philippines — Debuting Caroline Steffen of Switzerland and Casey Munro of Australia wasted little time making their marks in the Century Tuna 5150 Triathlon, dominating the premiere pro division races right on their first tries here yesterday.

A champion in Ironman 70.3 competitions but vying in the 5150 Olympic distance triathlon race for the very first time, Steffen blitzed the opposition and wrested the women’s pro diadem from three-peat-seeking Australian Belinda Granger with so much to spare.

Steffen, nicknamed “Xena” after the TV heroine, finished the 1.5k swim, 40k bike and 10k run race inside the SBMA in 2:15:32, blowing past Granger who checked in much later at 2:25:05.

Local ace Monica Torres hoisted the Phl flag as she came in third with her 2:28:20 effort.

Steffen’s training buddy Munro made an equally impressive romp in the men’s pro category of the Century Tuna-sponsored event that drew 1,285 participants.

A former pro cyclist, Munro banked on his riding skills to lay the foundation for a victorious campaign in 2:07:22, beating compatriot Michael Murphy (2:08:26) and Simon Agoston (2:09:13) for the title.

Jonard Saim ruled the men’s Filipino elite category, clocking 2:13:45 against Banjo Norte’s 2:14:46 and John Chicano’s 2:15:20.

Ma. Claire Adorna topped the distaff side, submitting 2:32:45 against Jenny Rose Guerrero’s 2:42:28 and Lea Coline Langit’s 2:46:26. (Manila Standard Today)

PHOTO:
Swiss Caroline Steffen (left) and Casey Munro of Australia raise the finish line banner as they dominate their respective divisions in the Century Tuna 5150 Triathlon in Subic yesterday.

http://manilastandardtoday.com/2014/06/30/swiss-aussie-rule-century-tuna-5150-triathlon/

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Safeguard 5i50 Triathlon in Subic a success

Subic again asserted its place as a sporting capital in Luzon after successfully hosting the Safeguard 5i50 Active Triathlon last Sunday, attracting triathletes from around the world.

The race was the second 5i50 triathlon event that was held in this free port this year after its being the venue once again of the Century Tuna 5i50 triathlon last June with over 900 participants.

The Subic Freeport has lately been the preferred venue for international races due to its challenging course set against a natural scenic background.

In the October 6 event, Australian Mitchell Robins topped the men’s pro division after completing the course in two
hours, five minutes and 22 seconds.

Robins was closely followed by Csaba Kuttor from Hungary who clocked in at 02:06:17 while third placer Peter Bajai, also from Hungary, finished with 02:08:18.

Another Hungarian, Ezter Dudas topped the women’s pro division after finishing the race in 02:21:32.

Filipino triathlon champion John Leerams Chicano proved once more his dominance in the local triathlon scene after topping the men’s Filipino elite division with 02:14:35. Chicano also finished sixth overall.

Employees from the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) tourism department also did well in the men’s relay after the SBMA Team placed 11th with 03:12:29. (FMD/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTO:
Local bet John Leerams Chicano emerged as the top Filipino finisher in the inaugural Safeguard Active 5150 Triathlon held in the Subic Bay Freeport last Sunday. Chicano, a precious Zambales find in triathlon, finished sixth overall with a time of 2:14:35.

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Subic packs in 900 athletes for 5i50 triathlon

Close to a thousand triathletes, including elite contenders from other countries, conquered on Sunday the 2013 Century Tuna 5i50 Triathlon, acknowledged as the biggest Olympic-distance race in the country today.

Organizers said that local and international triathletes faced the daunting challenge of completing a difficult long-distance course with the Subic Bay providing a picturesque backdrop for the event.

The elite field was represented by participants from 23 countries, including top contenders from the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, the United States, Singapore, France, Germany, Taiwan, Japan and the Philippines.

Former Ironman champion Luke McKenzie topped the men’s pro elite division after completing the course that involved three legs: a 1.5-kilometer swim leg, followed by a 40-kilometer bike leg, and then a 10-kilometer run course.

The Australian champion finished the race in 1 hour 59 minutes and 25 seconds.

McKenzie was followed by Xterra Off Road Triathlon champion Ben Allen who clocked in at 2:02:40 and by Australian triathlete Michael Murphy who finished with 2:05:46.

Meanwhile, Belinda Granger finished first for the women’s pro elite with 2:17:33, followed by Michelle Gailey with 2:24:09 and Jaqui Slack with 2:26:05.

John Leerams Chicano led the local bets in the Filipino men’s elite with 2:09:45 and finished fifth overall.

Chicano was followed by Jonard Saim with 2:10:29 and Olympic hopeful Nikko Huelgas with 2:11:00. Another local bet, Monica Torres, finished fourth in the women’s pro elite with 2:26:19.

This is the second year that Subic has hosted the 5i50 triathlon. Last year’s race was voted by triathletes as the second best triathlon event in the Philippines for 2012.

The Century Tuna 5i50 triathlon has become one of the major sports events held in the Subic Bay Freeport, as Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority chairman Roberto Garcia has put his focus on developing Subic as a premier sporting destination in the country.

"The 2013 edition of the Century Tuna 5i50 Triathlon not only featured a scenic and challenging route but also enjoyed a substantial increase of 52 percent in terms of participants, compared to last year'," SBMA deputy administrator for tourism Raul Marcelo said.

According to Marcelo, with SBMA chairman Garcia's focus on sports tourism and environmental protection, Subic Bay has become an environment- and sports-friendly destination. (FMD/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTO:
Participants in the 2013 Century Tuna 5i50 Triathlon brave the waters of Subic Bay during the 1.5-kilometer swim leg on Sunday.

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McKenzie, Granger top Subic 5150

Australian triathlete Luke McKenzie and Belinda Granger humbled their respective rivals to share the limelight in the Century Tuna 5150 Triathlon yesterday in Subic.

McKenzie crossed the finish line in one hour, 59 minutes and 25 seconds to beat closest pursuer Ben Allen by three minutes in the men’s division while Granger ruled the distaff side in 2:17:33, seven minutes off runner-up Michelle Gailey.

John Leerams Chicano, meanwhile, won the Filipino Elite Group in 2:09:45. Jonard Saim placed second at 2:10:29 while Nikko Huelgas took third at 2:11:00.

Jenny Rose Guerrero captured the Filipina Elite category at 2:41:48, defeating Rochelle Tan (2:52:56) and Marion Kim Mangrobang (3:03:20).

Wetshop Para Tri A team bagged the male relay event at 2:23:47 while David Salon B team secured the female team relay title in 2:47:36. The mixed relay division was dominated by the LM10 team composed of celebrity Solenn Heusaff, Rayzon Galdonez and Nicolas Bolzico at 2:25:25.

Nine hundred forty triathletes swam for 1.5 kilometers, rode the bike for 40 kilometers and ran 10 km in what is dubbed as the country’s largest Olympic distance triathlon series. (Manila Bulletin)

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World-class triathletes gear up for Century Tuna 5150

Some of the world’s most respected triathletes are all set to take on the largest global Olympic distance triathlon series, Century Tuna 5150 Triathlon happening on June 23 in Subic Bay.

Headlining the list of high-profile triathletes who will join the 5150 Triathlon is two-time Ironman World Champion (2010 and 2007) and triathlon legend Chris “Macca” McCormack. The five-time International Triathlete of the Year, McCormack has won over 200 races around the world since 1993. His long list of accomplishments includes 2012 Long Distance Triathlon World Champion (Vitoria-Gasteiz), Ironman Australia Champion (2002-2006), and both ITU Triathlon World and ITU Triathlon World Cup Champion in 1997.

Top professional triathletes from Australia are also set to fight for podium finishes. The elite group includes 2013 & 2012 Vaseline Men XTERRA Philippines Champion and 2012 XTERRA Pacific Triple Crown Champion Ben Allen, 2011 Rowing World Champion, and 2012 Dextro Energy (Sydney) Triathlon Champion and 2012 Northeim (Germany) Triathlon Champion Michael Murphy.

The female triathletes joining the 5150 Triathlon should not be taken lightly as well. Last year’s Century Tuna 5150 Triathlon Champion Belinda Granger is set to defend her title. Having competed in numerous triathlons for 18 years, Granger takes pride of her career record including 2011 Ironman 70.3 Japan Champion and 2011 Cobra Energy Drink Ironman 70.3 Philippines Champion.

Another lady to look out for during the 5150 race is 2012 XTERRA World Tour Italy Champion and 2013 Vaseline Men XTERRA Philippines 4th Placer Jacqui Slack.

Also participating in the second run of the race in the country are global pro triathletes Luke McKenzie, Justin Granger, Fredrik Croneborg, Luke Gillmer and Matt O’Halloran.

International triathlon pros gear up…

Overall, the Century Tuna 5150 Triathlon brings together triathletes from 23 countries including United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, United States of America, Singapore, France, Germany, Taiwan, Japan, and Philippines.

Century Tuna 5150 Triathlon Philippines is organized by Sunrise Events Inc., the same group producing the Cobra Energy Drink Ironman 70.3 Philippines. The event is also sponsored by Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority, 2XU, Air Asia, Alaska, Aqua Sphere, Cupcakes by Sonja, David’s Salon, Department of Tourism Region 3, Devant, Finisher Pix, Gatorade, Globe, Intercare, LBC Solutions, Manila Beer, Mastercard, Multisport, Oakley, Prudential Guarantee, Philippines Star, Planet Sports, Regent, Safeguard, Samsung, Shotz and Timex. (Manila Standard Today)

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Century Triathlon set in Subic

Century Tuna takes health and fitness to a whole new level when it holds the 5150 Triathlon Series on June 24 at the Subic Bay Freeport.

The event is an extraordinary demanding competition that challenges even the best and most seasoned triathletes who will see action in a 1.5K swim, 40K bike and 10K run event.

“We are very proud to be part of this world-class event. As Century Tuna is a brand that upholds the value of health and fitness, we think it is only fitting that we support an event of this magnitude so we can encourage more people to live a healthy lifestyle,” said Century Canning Corp. vice president and general manager Greg Banzon, a seasoned triathlete.

Now on its second year, the Century Tuna 5150 Triathlon Philippines has so far attract a big field that includes two-time Ironman world champion Chris McCormack, Luke McKenzie, Ben Allen, Jacqui Slack, and Belinda Granger. Also competing are Filipino elite triathletes, among them Filipino defending champions John Leerams Chicano and Monica Torres, Kim Mangrobang, and national triathlon record holder, Olympic hopeful and Century Tuna Tri Hard member Nikko Huelgas.

Also expected to compete are entries from the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, United States of America, Singapore, France, Germany, Taiwan, Japan, and Philippines.

Interested parties can log on to www.5150philippines.com, or the race’s official Facebook page at www.facebook.com/CenturyTuna5150Philippines for more details.

Backing the event are Finisher Pix, the competition’s official photographer, 2XU; Air Asia, Alaska, Aqua Sphere, David’s Salon, Department of Tourism Region 3, Dole, Gatorade, Globe, Intercare, LBC, Light ‘N Up Marketing, Manila Beer, Master Card, MultiSport, Oakley, PGA, Philippine Star, Pioneer Insurance & Surety Corp., Planet Sports, Regent, Safeguard, Shotz, Timex, and Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority. (Malaya)

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Subic Bay gaining ground in sports tourism

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Roberto V. Garcia expressed optimism for the future of sports tourism in this free port, after it successfully hosted another international triathlon on Sunday.

Garcia said the first Century Tuna 5i50 Triathlon, which drew more than 600 foreign and Filipino triathletes, will carry the torch for Subic in the international sporting circuit for the next three years.

“We are surely gaining ground as far as sports tourism is concerned,” Garcia said in after the inaugural run. “We’re very proud to have hosted this event, and we have a lot of foreign and local athletes, all of whom were very happy about the unique and challenging course,” he said.

The Century Tuna 5i50 Triathlon was the first 5i50 distance event sanctioned by the World Triathlon Corp. or WTC in Southeast Asia. It was composed of a 1.5-kilometer swim, a 40-kilometer bike, and a 10-kilometer run that took participants along the most scenic routes in this free port.

Garcia said the SBMA has signed a contract with Sunrise Events, Inc. for the staging of the event until 2014.

“So we look forward to a bigger field next year, and as far as our sports tourism program is concerned, we will continue to promote triathlons, marathons, biking events and all other sports events which have chosen Subic Bay as their venue,” he added.

In last Sunday’s races, Australian triathlon veteran David Dellow emerged as the first 5i50 Subic Bay champion after finishing with a time of 2 hours, 3 minutes and 02 seconds. Dellow was also the champion in Ironman Cairns 2012 held on June 3, and was 5th placer at the Ironman Asia-Pacific Championship 2012 in Melbourne last March 24.

Following close behind Dellow was three-time Olympic Triathlon qualifier Csaba Kuttor of Hungary, with total time of 2:03:27. Kuttor finished eighth place in the 2012 5i50 in Klagenfurt, Austria.

In third place was Australian Xterra elite Ben Allen with 2:04:43, while Canadian Mathieu O’Halloran finished fourth with 2:05:23. Allen won first place in the 2012 Xterra Asian Triple Crown and first place at the 2012 Xterra Philippines, while O’Halloran finished first place in the Pico De Loro Triathlon 2012, first place in the Zambales Beach Games Triathlon in 2011, and first place at the Bantayan Beach Games Triathlon.

Another Australian, Belinda Granger, ruled the women’s category, clocking 2:22:35 overall.

Meanwhile, the relay category was led by the Wetshop Tri Team, which recorded an aggregate time of 02:16:27. Team Wetshop Para-Tri clocked 02:31:30 for a second finish, while Meralco Lightspeed Team 1 finished third with 02:32:35.

A total of 619 participants, including 45 relay teams of three members each, joined the race which totalled 51.50-kilometer triathlon distance.

The Subic Bay sports event also drew international professional triathletes like Canadian Ali Fitch, British Jacki Slack, and Justin Granger, as well as Filipino celebrities like Senator Pia Cayetano, TV hosts Kim Atienza and Drew Arellano, actor Matteo Guidicelli, and news anchor Raffy Tima.

Organizer Alaska Milk Corp. president and CEO Fred Uytengsu said the Olympic-distance triathlon race will be held here annually until 2014 and will be organized by Sunrise Events, Inc., the company behind Ironman 70.3 Philippines. (RAV/MPD-SBMA)

PHOTOS:
SBMA Chairman Roberto Garcia raises the hand of Australian Belinda Granger, winner in women’s division of the First Century Tuna 5159 Triathlon held at the Subic Bay Freeport last Sunday.

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Aussies click in Subic triathlon

Australians David Dellow and Belinda Granger showed they’re not just long-course race specialists as they topped the Olympic-distance Century Tuna 5i50 Triathlon Series Philippines in contrasting styles at the tough course here at the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority.

The 33-year-old Dellow needed one burst of speed in the final three kilometers to overtake former three-time Olympian Csaba Kottur of Hungary and another Aussie Ben Allen to wrest his first victory in this 1.5K swim, 40K bike and 10K run in over a decade.

“It’s been a while since I last did short course races, maybe 10 years because I’ve been focusing my energy on doing long-course races,” said Dellow, whose long list of victories included Ironman Champion Cairns 2012.

“It’s two different sports really but I’m glad I won here, it’s unforgettable experience competing over here,” he added.

Dellow reached the finish line in two hours, three minutes, three seconds. Kuttor, who competed in the triathlon in Athens, Sydney and Beijing Olympics, was second in 2:03.27 while Allen was third in 2:04.43.

Granger, who topped the Cobra Energy Drink Ironman 70.3 in Camsur last year, ruled the women’s pro side in 2:22.35, or a whopping five minutes ahead of second placer Ali Fitch of Canada (2:27.47).

“It’s always special for me competing here in the Philippines and winning makes it more special,” said the 41-year-old Granger, whose other notable triumphs were the 2012 Geelong Long Course and 2011 Ironman 70.3 Japan.

Charming Jacqui Slack, the women’s division leader of the European Xterra Off-Road Triathlon series who admits to be in a serious relationship with Allen, bucked a couple of flat tires by emerging with the fastest sprint run. She finished third in 2:52.33.

The day, however, belonged to a 20-year-old Olongapo City native and a relay team consisting of a one-legged swimmer, one-foot cyclist and one-armed runner.

John Leerams Chicano, representing local-based Tri-Monkey team, stole the thunder from the favorites by emerging the best Filipino finisher in 2:11.35, that is also good for fifth overall behind Dellow, Kuttor, Allen and Matthieu O’Halloran, who wound up fourth in 2:05.23.

“I’m not really surprised to win because I’ve been training hard for this race,” said Chicano, a member of the national youth team, in Filipino. “I’m just happy that I beat some of the favorites, I will never forget this.”

Among the victims of Chicano were top Filipino triathletes Neil Catiil of LBC Solutions (2:16.04) and Arland Macasieb (2:19.46).



Representing coach Vince Garcia’s Wetshop Para-Tri Team, tanker Arnel Aba, who swam with just a left leg, cyclist Godfrey Taberna, who rode despite having a right club foot, and runner Isidro Vildosola came through with a ride to remember, finishing second among 23 teams in the team relay.

The only other team to beat Aba, Taberna and Vildosola was Wetshop’s other team headed by three-time Tour champion Santy Barnachea.

“We just want to prove that disability is not a hindrance if you will just believe in yourself,” said the 26-year-old Alba, who has already collected five gold medals in the Southeast Asian Para-Games.

Alaska’s TBB team, which consisted of four pros and six locals, also made heads turn and was spearheaded by 16-year-old Banjo Norte who wound up 12th overall in 2:26.54.

Monica Torres, who is busy preaching the sport online, won the local female elite section in 2:36.33, barely edging former Phl No. 1 LC Langit, who came in second in 2:36.33 despite getting his rear tire busted at the start of the bike part of the event.

The event is being presented by Century Tuna and sponsored by Alaska Milk, Gatorade, David’s Salon, 2XU, Timex, Intercare, Oakley, SBMA, with The Philippine STAR and Multisport Magazine as media partners.

For updates, you may visit its website at www.5i50philippines.com.

5i50 Notes: A lot of celebrities both from showbiz and politics joined the race, including Senator Pia Cayetano, Kuya Kim Atienza, Erwan Heussaff, Drew Arellano, Ernie Lopez and organizer Fred Uytengsu ... Aussie Ben Allen and Brit Jacqui Slack built their love affair in the triathlon circuit and are going steady for a year now. Coincidentally, they both finished third in the pro section ... Mattieu O’Halloran has given up his chance to play for Canada to represent the country but his plan to get naturalized didn’t push through. He did it for love, particularly Joyette Jopson, whom he has been with for almost four years now. (Joey Villar, Philippine Star)

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Unique course brings Century Tuna 5i50 Triathlon Philippines to Subic

This former military base where the best American soldiers were trained to win a war is now officially the home of Century Tuna 5i50 Triathlon Philippines, a distance competition where some of the world’s best triathletes are expected to compete.

The good news was announced as Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) chairman Roberto Garcia and Alaska Milk Corporation (AMC) president and CEO Fred Uytengsu signed a memorandum of agreement making the Subic Bay Freeport the venue for the 5i50 Triathlon this year until 2014.

Garcia said the agreement would place Subic in the forefront of top-caliber sports events for three years, as the Century Tuna 5i50 Triathlon would be the first 5i50 distance triathlon in Asia to be sanctioned by the World Triathlon Corporation (WTC).

The Olympic-distance Century Tuna 5i50 race will involve a 1.5 kilometer swim, a 40-kilometer bike event, and a 10-kilometer run.

“This is a very welcome opportunity for Subic to host this kind of event, and we thank Century Tuna Inc. and Sunrise Events for bringing this to Subic and adding more excitement to this emerging sports center in the region,” Garcia said.

“As you know, sports tourism is a major thrust in our tourism master plan and we really look forward to hosting world-class events from marathons to biking, to sailing,” he said, pointing out that Subic has just hosted the Rolex China Sea Race which started in Hong Kong and ended in Subic Bay, and the Commodore’s Cup, which is also part of the competition in the Asian sailing circuit.

For his part, Uytengsu said that Alaska milk will stage the Olympic-distance Century Tuna 5i50 Triathlon Series in the Philippines every month of June, starting this year until 2014.

Asked why Subic was chosen as venue for the 5i50 event, Uytengsu replied that they chose Subic because of its challenging course that incorporates scenic features.

“If you look at the landscape of Subic Bay, you would see that it has the best roads you’ve never seen in any road race in the country, and they are extremely safe and very well maintained,” Uytengu said.
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He added that the area also offers a very challenging course from the organizer’s stand point, which is something different from what has never been experienced before.

“Subic offers many different looks and many different experiences. This course is uniquely Century Tuna’s 5i50 course, and this is ours alone,” Uytengso happily pointed out.

Garcia added that Subic is also known for its road discipline and is a gated and fenced community, offering great security to sports participants. "We also have a 24/7 911 emergency assistance hotline that brings assistance to you wherever you are in the Freeport in a matter of minutes". (RAV/MPD-SBMA)

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Century Tuna triathlon unfolds in Subic

MANILA, Philippines - The Century Tuna 5i50 Triathlon Series Philippines is set on June 24 at scenic Subic Bay.

Fred Uytengsu, president and CEO of Alaska Milk Corp., said it’s going to be the “biggest triathlon event in the country.”

Those present in yesterday’s press launch at Dusit Hotel couldn’t disagree with the young-looking CEO, a certified triathlete.

It’s the first 5i50 distance marathon (1.5k swim, 40k bike, 10k run) sanctioned by the World Triathlon Corp. or WTC in Southeast Asia.

And Uytengsu, who helped bring Ironman races to the country, is ecstatic that the WTC has chosen the Philippines as 5i50’s takeoff point in the region.

“It only shows that triathlon is alive in the Philippines,” beamed Uytengsu, who also thanked other sponsors like The Philippine STAR, Gatorade, David’s Salon. 2XU, Timex, Oakley, Intercare and Multisport Magazine.

The famous franchise owner in the Philippine Basketball Association was joined at the presidential table by Subic Bay Management Authority chairman Bobby Garcia and Century Tuna’s Greg Banzon.

Also present were foreign and local triathletes.

Uytengsu was asked why they chose Subic. Why not?

“We looked at the different landscapes for locations and considered what Subic has. It’s enclosed, safe and fully-maintained,” he said.

The SBMA chairman found the better answer.

“It’s more ‘fun-tastic’ in Subic,” he said, borrowing the country’s tourism slogan, and drawing laughter from the crowd.

“Subic is a fenced and gated community. Very secure. And it’s one of the very few places in the Philippines where people follow the stop signs.

“At Subic, we have a 911 (emergency management) and if you call, the phone doesn’t have to ring twice. In 10 minutes, we will get to you,” said Garcia.

The entire race will be held inside the former US naval base. The SBMA has inked a contract with Sunrise Events, Inc. for the staging of the event until 2014. (Abac Cordero, Philippine Star)

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