Lim, Chiongbian siblings look to defend titles in Talisay triathlon

KRISTIANE Lim and the Chiongbian siblings—Justin and Yuan will be returning to defend their titles in today’s 2nd Talisay Triathlon Race slated to start and end at the Talisay City Fish Port.

The event is held in line with the city’s American Landing celebration.

Lim clinched the overall title in the men’s division in last year’s inaugural edition of the event while the Chiongbian brothers started their triathlon career in this event by ruling their respective divisions in the kids category.

They will be joined by other decorated athletes such as Gerrie Calinawan and Philip Duenas, among others.

Multi-titled athletes will also be seen competing in the relay category such as running queen Mary Joy Tabal and cyclists Jaybop Pagnanawon and Engelbert Bacalla.

Organizer Hazel Busa said that all 150 slots they put out were filled. She said 80 percent of the participants are beginners.

At the request of most participants, instead of the standard distance last year, the race will be adopting the shorter sprint distance, which is a 750-meter swim, 20-kilometer bike and 5-kilometer run.

The race route will be closed to all vehicular traffic for the safety of the participants.

Winners and finishers will be receiving specially made medals. /CORRESPONDENT MARS G. ALISON