Vintas to color Ironman swimming event

Colorful vintas or native sail boats will ply the Hilutungang Channel during the swimming event of the Ironman triathlon on August 5.

In yesterday’s dry run, the vintas lined the 1.9 kilometer swimming course off the coast of Mactan Island.

The vintas will be stationed off the cost of Shangri-La, Portofino and Movenpick resorts during the event to cheer on the swimmers.

Prizes will be given to the most beautiful vinta.

Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Paz Radaza said she hopes the sight of the colorful sail boats, which are native to Mindanao, would welcome tourists and spectators, and “show how the city strives to double the fun.”

A jelly fish catching contest will also be held a few hours before the event to ensure that the sea where the swimmers will compete will be free from the sting of these sea creatures.

Radaza also checked the route of the 21-kilometer running event that will cover barangays Punta Engano, Mactan, Buaya, Ibo, Pusok and the Marcelo Fernan bridge.

A total of 25,000 high school students and cheerers will be stationed along the race routes.

They will be cheering while waving flaglets during the running and bike leg of the event.

The most lively cheering group will also receive an award from organizers.

The 2012 Ironman triathlon staged by Cobra energy drink will attract about 2,000 local and foreign athletes and celebrities.

Among the international celebrities who confirmed joining the competition is British Formula One Grand Prix driver Jenson Button of Maclaren.

His girlfriend, supermodel Jessica Michibata has also confirmed participation in the relay event of the Ironman.

Local celebrities like Richard Gutierez, Mateo Guidicelli, Jennelyn Mercado and Piolo Pascual are also set to join the race.

Businessman Fernando Zobel de Ayala, Wilfredo Uytengsu Jr. and Sen. Pia Cayetano are also joining the race.

Aside from the 1.9 kilometer swimming event, the triathlon also involves a 21-kilometer run and 90 kilometer bike race that will bring them to Mandaue, Cebu and Talisay cities and bact to Lapu-Lapu City./Correspondent Norman V. Mendoza