More than a hundred swimmers will take part in today’s 6th Olango Challenge, which starts and ends at the Crimson Resort and Spa in Lapu-Lapu City.
Two-time champion Loren Dale Echavez of University of San Carlos (USC) will be gunning for her third title in the female division of the competitive category, which will cover the same six kilometers.
Echavez’s sister Lorhiz, who is also a champion swimmer and triathlete, also wanted to see action but she failed to register on time for the event.
Also expected to hit the waters today is Kiefer Ticao, the defending male division champion.
The 6K race also features a fun category in male and female divisions for the non-hardcore swimmers. There will also be a two-kilometer race with a competitive and fun category.
Most of the competitors will be triathletes as they will be using this event as one of their preparations for the Aug. 4 Cobra Energy Ironman Philippines 70.3, which will have the swim portion at the nearby Shangri-La Resort and Spa.
Aside from the new venue, participants will also negotiate a new race course, which is designed to complement the tide.
Aside from the trophies and medals, winners will also get cash prizes.
The Olango Challenge is a fund-raising event of the Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP) aimed at building more classrooms in Olango Island. /CORRESPONDENT MARS G. ALISON