Van der Linden eyes Dutch treat

Five months after ruling the full IRONMAN Philippines in punishing conditions at Subic Bay, Dutchman Eric van der Linden is back in pursuit of another triathlon glory — half the distance but full in challenges in the IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Princesa blasting off 12 November in Palawan.

Van der Linden will lead the crack roster of foreign bidders from 38 countries all armed and ready for a test of power, speed and stamina against the local top guns in the 1.9km swim, 90km bike and 21.1k run distance event marking its return to the city of forest following a successful hosting of the premier endurance race last year.

The 49-year-old Schagen, North Holland native actually placed sixth in the inaugurals, crowding the likes of Fer Casares, Satar Salem, John Alcala, Mervin Santiago and Jailani Lamama for early control in the swim leg but losing momentum in the bike and run stages, enabling the strong-finishing Alcala to claim the victory and earn the bragging rights as the first IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Princesa champion.

But Van der Linden's triumph in Subic, where he battled through rough waters and windy, wet conditions in the 3.8km swim, 180km bike and 42km run race that ran through near-midnight, should boost the Sydney Olympics veteran's confidence heading to the upcoming race also serving as first-time host to the Asia TriClub and Relay Championship.

Meanwhile, Japan is fielding in the most number of entries among the foreign teams in the individual competitions with 21 while 15 triathletes will each anchor Great Britain and Singapore's drive.