Top triathletes gear up for 5150 FAB debut

1 of 2

A powerhouse field, led by World Championship standout Mervin Santiago and Nicole Andaya, will spearhead an impressive cast of seasoned campaigners and newcomers in the inaugural 5150 FAB (Freeport Area of Bataan) Triathlon, set to light up the scenic coastal hub of Mariveles, Bataan, this Sunday (Nov. 16).

Santiago, a consistent top 3 finisher among all Filipinos in the IRONMAN World Championship, and Andaya, winner of the historic 5150 Dapitan in 2024, headline a deep roster of elite and age-group contenders eager to test their mettle on a challenging new course that blends competition, beauty, and endurance in equal measure.

Joining him are fellow stalwarts Paulo Sauler, also an IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship finisher, Claudine Mendiola, Reujen Lista, the “Rockstar Coach” known for producing champions, and Vanessa Agdon, a multi-time IRONMAN World Championship qualifier who remains one of the country’s most consistent endurance athletes.

The 5150 FAB features a classic Olympic-distance format—1.5km swim, 40km bike, and 10km run—across a freshly mapped championship course that promises to test even the most seasoned athletes.

For details, visit www.ironman.com/races/5150-fab or email sai.mayol@ironman.com.

Organized by Sunrise Events, Inc. in partnership with the Freeport Area of Bataan, the 5150 FAB marks a major milestone in the province’s growing reputation as a rising triathlon and endurance sports hub.

The province’s blend of challenging terrain, pristine waters, and world-class hospitality makes it a natural fit for high-caliber multisport competitions.

The action begins Saturday (Nov. 15) with the FABoulous Run at 5 p.m., a festive prelude event looping around Luzon Avenue within the Freeport, before triathletes dive into the crystal-clear waters of Camaya Coast the following morning.

Beyond the elite contenders, the 5150 FAB will also welcome participants across a wide range of age categories (16–69), underlining its commitment to inclusivity and the growing passion for triathlon in the region.

In the men’s Open division, expect a spirited battle among Joshua Lao, Larry Lanot, Isiah Alvarez, Raymund Torio, Joseph Hipolito, and Jayrold Garcia, while Micah Resos, Mary Jane Cantago, and Jean Therese Carpio headline the women’s Open side.

The race route is as breathtaking as it is demanding.

The swim leg opens in calm, turquoise waters—deceptively peaceful but calling for tactical navigation and stamina.

Emerging from the sea, athletes face a grueling yet rewarding bike leg that rolls through the coastal hills of Mariveles.

The opening stretch out of Camaya Coast sets a tough tone before giving way to a mix of fast descents and picturesque terrain overlooking the West Philippine Sea.

Capping the day is a two-loop run that winds through shaded paths and rugged terrain, pushing every ounce of endurance while offering runners a visual feast of lush greenery and sweeping coastal vistas.

Each segment has been carefully crafted to merge competition, safety, and scenery, making this event a showcase not only of athletic prowess but also of Bataan’s emerging potential as a premier triathlon destination.

Backed by title sponsor the Freeport Area of Bataan and Camaya Coast as the host venue, the event is supported by Amlan, ION+, Philippine Sports Commission, Sal+Fin, Sante, Manila Bulletin, Tempo, and media partner Sportograf.

The 5150 FAB joins the prestigious 5150 and Sprint Series, a global franchise that also includes the renowned IRONMAN 70.3 events—giving Filipino athletes another world-class stage to perform on, whether they’re seasoned campaigners or first-time participants chasing the thrill of the finish line.