Philstar.com
September 12, 2025 | 1:19pm
MANILA, Philippines — Religion Garcia is bracing for an additional grueling take a look at of will, energy and endurance as she leads a formidable group of contenders within the extremely anticipated Damosa Land 5150 Triathlon — an Olympic-distance race marking its inaugural run on the gorgeous Island Backyard Metropolis of Samal in Davao Gulf.
This is not simply one other triathlon. For Garcia, a former magnificence queen turned fierce age-group competitor, it is a probability to lastly seize a breakthrough win within the girls’s 30-34 class — a race that may also crown the first-ever champions of the Samal 5150, providing bragging rights and a spot in historical past because the island’s first triathlon titleholders.
Set towards one of many nation’s most idyllic backdrops, the Samal 5150 guarantees a novel and unforgettable racing expertise. From the crystal-clear waters of Bridgeport, to the breathtaking bike journey alongside the coastal Samal Circumferential Street, and thru the colourful coronary heart of the town’s enterprise district, each stage of the race presents not solely a bodily problem, however a multisensory journey like no different.
Whereas the Open division is predicted to attract the highlight with athletes like Ira Kaye Bragat, Ivy Mar Daguplo, Clare Marie Ciriaco and Melgin Hibaya going head-to-head in a showcase of pace, technique, and stamina, Garcia, additionally a profitable entrepreneur who has additionally competed in IRONMAN 70.3 races, is decided to carve her personal highlight.
Recognized for her grit and consistency, she’ll face stiff competitors from the likes of Anne Relova, Gamy Aragon, Althaea Benignos and Rousanne Bernos, amongst others — all vying for that high podium spot within the 30-34 age group.
The youthful divisions are additionally stacked with rising stars. Moira Aves and Alessandra Aquino will lead the cost within the girls’s 20-24 class, whereas Kat Dayao, Kathleen Chin, Patricia Serrano, Katrina Leuenberger, Coralyn Lim, and Jesseca Bayoyos spotlight the fierce rivalry within the 25-29 bracket.
From first-timers making an attempt the Dash (750m swim, 20km bike, 5km run) and Relay divisions, to elite rivals within the Open and Age Group battles, the Samal 5150 presents one thing for everybody — a celebration of endurance, group and journey.
For listup and particulars, go to ironman.com/races/5150-samal/course. For inquiries, e mail [email protected].
What units the 5150 Samal aside is its unmatched setting and demanding format. The 1.5km looped swim course begins at Bridgeport, a luxurious marina in Brgy. Caliclic, tracing a turquoise shoreline that feels extra like a postcard-perfect trip than a race begin.
However make no mistake – this course bites again. The 40km bike leg, a double-loop route alongside the Samal Circumferential Street, options rolling terrain and elevation adjustments that can punish the unprepared and reward the sturdy. With sweeping views of Davao Gulf and the town skyline, it’s a take a look at of each leg energy and psychological grit.
The race wraps with a 10km run by means of Samal’s vigorous city core, the place cheering locals and festive group help promise to energise each step towards the end line. It is a route designed to push limits and ship unforgettable moments.
Past the battle for high honors, the host metropolis is dedicated to delivering a world-class racing expertise. The organizing Dawn Occasions Inc. is pulling out all of the stops to make sure a clean, secure and memorable occasion that showcases the pure magnificence and vibrant tradition of Samal.