Rains, strong winds to make life harder for IronMan racers

Organizers yesterday warned participants of the Ironman 70.3 Philippines of strong crosswinds and rough seas brought about by a low pressure area (LPA) hovering over the Visayas and Mindanao.

During the final race briefing at the Mactan Ballroom of Shangri-La Resort and Spa, organizers advised swimmers to seek immediate help from safety personnel spread in the entire 1.9-kilometer swim route should they experience any difficulty.

“The key word here is safety. If you think you need help, ask for it immediately, we have personnel ready to extend assistance,” triathlon coach Lance Watson said.

The participants were also shown a video detailing the reminders for the race, the rules and the official route for today’s international triathlon event. Organizers also said that 15 marshals will be stationed throughout the race route to monitor the compliance of rules and to watch for the safety of the participants.

Organizers highlighted the weather forecast for today, especially after what occurred in yesterday’s Alaska Ironkids, wherein some categories were cancelled for the safety of the participants.

Organizers asked ABS-CBN’s Kim Atienza, a participant of today’s race, to give the forecast in his usual TV Patrol format. Atienza based his report on information from Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pag-Asa) Cebu.

TOUGH CHALLENGES AHEAD
According to the report, the low pressure area near General Santos City will reach Southern Visayas by this morning, bringing a 90 percent probability of thunderstorms.

Event organizers are hoping that the rain comes later in the race and not during the swim leg.

“The Southwest monsoon will be directed North-North-East and today’s weather will be enhanced by the said weather disturbance,” Atienza said. “This means that we should be more cautious as crosswinds may be strong enough to cause problems in the bike leg,” cautioned Atienza.
But the bad weather also meant good news for some participants. With an expected temperature of 25 degrees Celsius, they expressed relief because a hot, humid day would be more taxing for them.

Meanwhile, Alaska Milk Corporation President and CEO Fred Uytengsu, Jr. opened the race briefing by handing over a plaque of recognition to Frank Lacson, the country’s first triathlete, for championing the development of the sport in the Philippines.