Damosa Land 5150 ignites fierce Open division duel

With a stellar field primed for a high-stakes showdown of power, speed and strategy, the Open division of the Damosa Land 5150 Triathlon on Samal Island is shaping up to be a battle for the ages – one that promises to push elite triathletes to their limits on a course that is as beautiful as it is brutal.

Set against the pristine backdrop of the Davao Gulf, the inaugural 5150 Samal race – firing off this Sunday (Sept. 21) – offers far more than medals. At stake are bragging rights as the first-ever champions of a course that’s yet to be conquered, delivering an unforgettable race experience both for competitors and spectators alike.

Among the top male contenders are Davao’s Elgin Ong, Diego Ma, Jan Paulo Bucu, Jay Ramos and Ruark Cadelina, along with strong regional talents like Ed Pantujan and Marcel Puentespina of Digos City, Ferdinand Lee of Naga, Hamnor Manabilang of Cotabato City, Janmart Penserga of Tagum and Seth Sabuga from Panabo.

Representing broader national and international regions are athletes from Cagayan de Oro, Parañaque, Mandaluyong and as far as Auckland, all of whom have their eyes set on the title.

On the women’s side, Clare Ciriaco, Ira Kaye Bragat, Ivy Mar Daguplo and Melgin Hibaya lead a spirited charge in what is expected to be a fiercely contested duel for the crown in the idyllic Bridgeport community.

Organized by Sunrise Events, Inc., the Damosa Land 5150 Samal is more than a race – it’s a celebration of athletic spirit, community support, and the raw, untamed beauty of Samal Island.

Registration is underway, with the event attracting close to 1,100 athletes across various categories. Of these, approximately 660 competitors are set to take part in the main event, highlighting the growing interest and competitive spirit surrounding this year’s edition.

For details, visit ironman.com/races/5150-samal/course. For inquiries: email sai.mayol@ironman.com.

Adding to the intensity is the course itself – a formidable test across three discipline – 1.5km swim in the calm yet challenging waters fronting Bridgeport, a 40km bike ride on a two-loop, fully enclosed circuit around the Samal Circumferential Road, offering dramatic ocean views and undulating terrain, and a 10km run, weaving through the vibrant heart of Samal’s business center, energized by cheering locals lining the streets.

The event is hosted in the Island Garden City of Samal, a tropical haven renowned for its white-sand beaches, coral-rich marine sanctuaries, and landmarks like Hagimit Falls and Monfort Bat Cave.

More than just a triathlon, the 5150 Samal experience promises a fusion of natural beauty, cultural richness and athletic excellence.

Participants from across the country and beyond will not only race for the title but face the ultimate test of endurance and willpower on a never-before-raced terrain – a setting that ensures no past experience can fully prepare them. It’s a true equalizer and a rare opportunity for both underdogs and favorites to etch their names in history.

From age-groupers aged 16-19 to 70-74 to rising young guns and seasoned veterans, the competition will be as deep as it is diverse. The event also features a Sprint Distance race (750m swim, 20km bike, 5km run) and a relay category, providing opportunities for both aspiring triathletes and veteran racers seeking a fresh challenge.