A dynamic and diverse field of athletes—from seasoned triathletes sharpening their speed to first-timers entering endurance sports—is gearing up for the much-anticipated Sunrise Sprint (S2) on Sunday, June 15, in Subic Bay.
S2, a short-distance triathlon designed as an entry point into the sport, features a 750-meter open-water swim, 20-kilometer bike ride, and a 5-kilometer run.
It will serve as a sub-event to the centerpiece Century Tuna IRONMAN 70.3 Subic Bay, also scheduled for Sunday, following the IRONKIDS competition on Saturday, June 14.
The back-to-back events promise an explosive and inspiring weekend of multisport action.
More than just a race, the Sunrise Sprint plays a key role in developing future triathletes.
Its Olympic-style course and shorter format make it ideal for athletes testing the waters of competitive triathlon while delivering a high-quality racing experience.
“The Sunrise Sprint is more than just a race—it’s a launchpad,” said Princess Galura, president and general manager of Sunrise Events Inc., the event organizer.
“It’s where tomorrow’s IRONMAN finishers get their start, learning the ropes, building confidence, and discovering the joy of triathlon racing.”
She added that the format challenges athletes without overwhelming them, bridging the gap between beginner-friendly races and long-distance endurance events.
“Whether you’re a first-time racer or a competitive athlete refining your form, S2 offers a space to grow, compete, and be inspired,” she said.
Muntinlupa City’s Lucienne Aragones, runner-up to Sofia Calvo in the most recent Sunrise Sprint in Palawan, returns as a strong favorite in the women’s division.
She leads a talent-rich roster that includes Rachelle Guieb, Katrina Bisuña, Veronica Pamintuan, Hanzel Barrameda, Gabriela Hirang, Mariel Montebon, Shirra de Guia, Katrina Salazar, Isabelle Manlulo and Atheena Lopez.
The men’s field promises just as much excitement.
Young contenders Caleb Carlos, Miguel Souza and Kurt Julian are expected to set the pace, with James Van Ramoga, Gardson Quimado, Yuen Verbruggen, Chris Cabico, Josh Valencia, Joshua Fajardo, Ron Mazo and Elijah Ducot also in contention.
Adding to the event’s prestige, athletes from Poland, Hong Kong, Thailand, Brazil, Israel, Zimbabwe and the Netherlands will join local competitors, creating a vibrant international atmosphere and underscoring the race’s growing global appeal.
The S2 will also crown winners in various age-group categories, ranging from 16-19 up to 65-69, reflecting the event’s inclusive spirit.
The race begins with a rolling swim start at 5:50 a.m. along the Subic Bay Boardwalk.
Participants have 30 minutes to complete the swim, followed by a 1-hour, 45-minute cutoff for the bike leg, which starts at Dewey Avenue.
The run, starting at Waterfront Road and Labitan, has a final 2-hour, 30-minute cutoff to wrap up the race.
