AT LEAST 1,200 duathlon athletes, locally and from abroad, are expected to participate when the first-ever Powerman Duathlon Pilipinas gets going on Nov. 15 in Balanga, Bataan.
No less than world champion Gael Lebelec of France lead the field of competitors that will vie for the total cash pot of P1 million for the event put up by F and F International Events Group.
The Powerman duathlon series, which will cover a distance of 10km run-10km bike and 10km run in the elite division, will offer precious ranking points, being an official qualifying event for the ITU Powerman Long Distance Duathlon World Championship.
“We have earned the distinction of holding the only Powerman duathlon event in Asia and this is a testament of the growing number of Filipino athletes getting hooked in duathlon,” said Powerman Duathlon Philippines president Raymund Magdaluyo on Tuesday during the Philippine Sportswriters Assocation forum at the Shakey’s in Malate.
“More than just the chance of brining the world class sports event to the country, this is also an opportunity for us to send our athletes to international arena,” said F and F’s marketing head Tobias Bernardo, who joined Magdaluyon in the forum sponsored by Pagcor and San Miguel Corporation.
Leading the charge of the local participants is top Filipino campaigner Robero Javier, who is expected to crash the top five finishers of this event, which is held in coordination with the provincial government of Bataan and city of Balanga.