All eyes will be on Olongapo this weekend as the Century Tuna IRONMAN 70.3 Subic Bay Philippines returns on Sunday, transforming the coastal city into a battleground for some of the world’s fittest endurance athletes.

With elite international triathletes joining the fray, the race promises a wide-open contest for top honors across all categories.

The event that features the classic 1.9-kilometer swim, 90-km bike, and 21-km run will mark the second of five major races on the Sunrise Events, Inc. calendar.

Following the success of IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Princesa in March, Subic Bay ups the ante with a fierce and diverse field — from age-group warriors to seasoned campaigners — competing for 45 coveted slots to the IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship in Marbella, Spain this November.

But the intensity doesn’t stop there. Saturday will see the return of the RLC IRONKIDS while the Sunrise Sprint adds an extra dimension on Sunday — a short-distance showdown (750m swim, 20km bike, 5km run) that is ideal for rookies and speedsters alike.

With former IRONMAN 70.3 Cebu champion August Benedicto, and past 5150 titleholders Irienold Reig Jr. and Nicole Andaya in the mix, the field is packed with top-tier talent — setting the stage for an intense showdown for overall and age-group honors.

Kaye Burgos, the top lady finisher in the recent Ibabao Festival Sunrise Standard Triathlon Recon Race in Northern Samar, has also confirmed her participation in the Bagong Bayani race, formerly the Fil-Elite category.

With Subic Bay’s racecourse newly enhanced to deliver a world-class racing experience, expect fast times, bold moves and dramatic finishes.

But it’s not just about individual glory.

Clubs are also in the mix as the Badge Blitz campaign heats up. TriClubs competing in unity unlock exclusive IRONMAN digital badges, plus cash prizes worth up to P50,000 at season’s end.

The Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center will also host an exclusive IRONMAN warehouse sale, featuring big deals on gear, apparel, and merchandise, from 12 to 15 June.