The global 5150 Triathlon Series makes its debut in Guimaras on 8 March, bringing Olympic-distance racing to the scenic shores of Playa de Paraiso in San Lorenzo, while kicking off another busy season for elite athletes, rising endurance racers and future stars.

The 5150 Guimaras, featuring 1.5-kilometer swim, 40-km bike and 10-km run, starts in the clear waters off Playa de Paraiso, where athletes will dive into calm, blue waters before mounting their bikes to traverse rolling countryside and the Guimaras Circumferential Road. The route offers stunning coastal views and passes local landmarks like the Guimaras Museum, blending athletic challenge with glimpses of the island’s rich heritage.

By the time runners reach the final stretch near the Provincial Capitol Grounds, the race becomes as much a test of resilience as it is a journey of discovery.

But the racing weekend in the country’s mango capital isn’t only for seasoned triathletes.

The Sunrise Sprint, a 750-meter swim, 20-km bike and 5-km run race, offers first-timers and recreational athletes an approachable entry into endurance sport. Set in a welcoming environment, the race lets newcomers experience the thrill of competition while surrounded by the island’s quiet yet confident energy.

Organized by Sunrise Events Inc., the exclusive Philippine licensee of the IRONMAN brand since 2009 and headed by president and managing director Princess Galura, the organization has steadily expanded the country’s endurance sports map, bringing world-class events to destinations like Subic Bay, Cebu, Bohol, Davao and Samal Island.

As endurance sports continue to grow in the Philippines, smaller island provinces are stepping forward, offering something distinct from city circuits and resort hubs — intimacy, community and terrain that tells a story with every climb and curve.

Following Guimaras, triathlon action moves to Mindanao for the IRONMAN 70.3 Davao on 22 March, preceded by the Gwapa Dabawenya Run on 20 March and IronKids Aquathlon on 21 March.

Similar first-time events await elsewhere — Camiguin Island in Northern Mindanao will host its inaugural 5150 Triathlon on 3 May, before Sunrise Events Inc. holds its annual Shopwise Bikefest on 17 May in Imus, Cavite.