Garcia eyes glory in inaugural Samal 5150 showdown

Faith Garcia is bracing for another grueling test of will, strength and endurance as she leads a formidable group of contenders in the highly anticipated Damosa Land 5150 Triathlon – an Olympic-distance race marking its inaugural run on the stunning Island Garden City of Samal in Davao Gulf.

This isn’t just another triathlon. For Garcia, a former beauty queen turned fierce age-group competitor, this is a chance to finally seize a breakthrough win in the women’s 30-34 category – a race that will also crown the first-ever champions of the Samal 5150, offering bragging rights and a place in history as the island’s first triathlon titleholders.

Set against one of the country’s most idyllic backdrops, the Samal 5150 promises a unique and unforgettable racing experience. From the crystal-clear waters of Bridgeport, to the breathtaking bike ride along the coastal Samal Circumferential Road, and through the vibrant heart of the city’s business district, every stage of the race offers not only a physical challenge, but a multisensory journey like no other.

While the Open division is expected to draw the spotlight with athletes like Ira Kaye Bragat, Ivy Mar Daguplo, Clare Marie Ciriaco and Melgin Hibaya going head-to-head in a showcase of speed, strategy, and stamina, Garcia, also a successful entrepreneur who has also competed in IRONMAN 70.3 races, is determined to carve her own spotlight.

Known for her grit and consistency, she’ll face stiff competition from the likes of Anne Relova, Gamy Aragon, Althaea Benignos and Rousanne Bernos, among others – all vying for that top podium spot in the 30-34 age group.

The younger divisions are also stacked with emerging stars. Moira Aves and Alessandra Aquino will lead the charge in the women’s 20-24 class, while Kat Dayao, Kathleen Chin, Patricia Serrano, Katrina Leuenberger, Coralyn Lim, and Jesseca Bayoyos highlight the fierce rivalry in the 25-29 bracket.

From first-timers trying the Sprint (750m swim, 20km bike, 5km run) and Relay divisions, to elite competitors in the Open and Age Group battles, the Samal 5150 offers something for everyone – a celebration of endurance, community and adventure.

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

What sets the 5150 Samal apart is its unmatched setting and demanding layout. The 1.5km looped swim course begins at Bridgeport, a luxury marina in Brgy. Caliclic, tracing a turquoise coastline that feels more like a postcard-perfect vacation than a race start.

But make no mistake – this course bites back. The 40km bike leg, a double-loop route along the Samal Circumferential Road, features rolling terrain and elevation changes that will punish the unprepared and reward the strong. With sweeping views of Davao Gulf and the city skyline, it’s a test of both leg power and mental grit.

The race wraps with a 10km run through Samal’s lively urban core, where cheering locals and festive community support promise to energize every step toward the finish line. It’s a route designed to push limits and deliver unforgettable moments.

Beyond the battle for top honors, the host city is committed to delivering a world-class racing experience. The organizing Sunrise Events, Inc. is pulling out all the stops to ensure a smooth, safe, and memorable event that showcases the natural beauty and vibrant culture of Samal.