Cebu to Host 2016 Asia Pacific Triathlon

Cebu will host the 2016 Ironman Asia Pacific Championships, organizers said.

Fred Uytengsu, president and chairman of Sunrise Events Inc. (SEI), said they are humbled and honored to host the biggest triathlon event in the region.

“Many years ago, many said that a triathlon event couldn’t be done because the Philippines can’t host an international event. After seven years, we are here with 2,618 participants,” he said.

“We are extremely proud of the Province of Cebu, and Lapu-Lapu City, in particular, for this event,” he said.

Uytengsu said they have completed the requirements for the hosting the Asia Pacific Championships—capability to host, hotel accommodations and financial obligations.

“We filled that out and submitted it to Ironman and about two weeks ago, we got their approval,” he said.

Uytengsu said there are a lot of things to improve for 2016 and one of them is to make the roads better.

“We’re going make sure to improve the road system and continue to be a spectator-friendly race,” he said.

Geoff Meyer, the chief executive officer for Ironman Asia-Pacific, said in a separate interview that SEI has sent the proposal to host the event and organizers seized the chance.

“Basically, it’s been in Auckland for three straight years and it’s time to have it in another part of Asia. Cebu is very deserving to be awarded as host,” said Meyer.

When asked if there is a possibility that it will stay for three years in Cebu like in Auckland, Meyer said they are planning to rotate it around the region.

Princess Galura, the project director of SEI, feels that if Ironman Asia-Pacific officials see how the Ironman 70.3 Philippines is managed, it would increase the chances of the event staying in Cebu. (PNA) CTB/EB/MP/PJN