MANILA – Top local and international triathletes will see action in the IRONMAN 70.3 Philippines which unfolds on Aug. 10 in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu.

The blue-ribbon event, presented by Megaworld and Mactan Newton, features a grueling 1.9 km. swim, 90 km. bike and 21 km. run.

South African Henri Schoeman, a bronze medalist at the 2016 Rio Olympics, won the men's title last year. Dutch Els Visser ruled the women's division.

The IRONMAN 70.3 Philippines earned the distinction of Best Spectator Race in 2018 and has since grown into a marquee event in the international triathlon calendar.

Billed as the Crown Jewel of Asia, the competition offers a unique course that weaves through the crystal-clear waters off Mactan Island, an iconic and scenic cycling route, and a festive yet demanding run -- delivering an unmatched racing experience.

A host of side events will be held before the main race. These are the 2GO Reyna Bulakna Run (Aug. 8 at Liberty Shrine) -- a 5 km. fun run, inspired by local heroine Reyna Bulakna, which is open to all genders ages 5 and up; the RLC Residences IRONKIDS (Aug. 9 at Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort) for 6 to 15 years old; and the Sunrise Sprint (Aug. 10) -- a shorter distance race (750m swim, 20 km. bike, 5 km. run) for beginners and recreational athletes. (PNA)