CAPAS, Tarlac — The Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series 2025 will make an electrifying return to the scenic island of El Nido in Palawan from 11 to 13 April.

A score of daredevils bannered by Filipino-Australian Xantheia Pennisi, reigning Sydney tour stop winner Oleksiy Prygorov, and national diving team coach Marie Dimanche showed up to declare their readiness to compete for the crown.

Now in its 16th season, the prestigious diving event is an elite extreme sports competition that pushes human skill and focus to the limit.

In every event, 12 men and 12 women execute acrobatic dives from towering heights — 27 meters for men and 21 meters for women — plunging into the waters below at speeds reaching 85 km/h.

Each dive is meticulously judged based on technique, execution, and artistic presentation, with championship points awarded throughout the season. The series culminates with the crowning of the overall champions in both categories, who earn the prestigious King Kahekili trophy.

Those who want to witness the spectacle can catch the action from boats or kayaks stationed near Lagen Island or the Big Lagoon, Miniloc Island in El Nido. There, however, will be no public access for spectators during Round 2 on 12 April.

Pennisi, a 26-year-old diver who made her Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series debut at 19 years old in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina in 2018, said she underwent a grueling training regiment to make sure that she will be competitive.

“We spend many hours in the pool and the gym, perfecting every movement for just three seconds of diving in competition,” she told DAILY TRIBUNE in an interview.

“I had to train in a 10-meter pool for hours, refining my turns and entry before even attempting higher dives. It takes countless hours of practice, but with dedication, it’s achievable for anyone.”

Pennisi, who has been in the Philippines for training, will soon head to China to continue preparations in a 20-meter pool.

“They have a facility that’s double the height, which will allow me to perfect my dives for competition,” she said, acknowledging the challenge ahead. JASON MAGO

“Everyone is a big competitor. The difficulty level of dives is so high now, and we’re all pushing the limits. But I’m focused on how I feel and how my preparation is going. I believe I’m in the best shape I’ve ever been, so I’m really excited for this season.”