DAVAO CITY — The long wait ends today as the BYD IRONMAN 70.3 Davao presented by Aboitiz blasts off, igniting a high-stakes endurance showdown that brings together elite international contenders, rising stars and the country’s finest triathletes in one of the most anticipated races on the calendar.

Set against the demanding backdrop of Davao’s tropical heat, the race marks a powerful return after a year-long hiatus, immediately raising the stakes for a deep and diverse field representing 30 nations.

From seasoned campaigners to hungry newcomers, competitors brace for the grueling test of a 1.9-km swim, 90-km bike and 21-km run — each leg promising to push athletes to their physical and mental limits.

At the heart of the competition is a compelling clash between international standouts and a determined Filipino contingent eager to defend home soil. The pressure is squarely on the locals — not only to match the pace of their foreign rivals but to assert themselves in both the Open and age-group divisions.

Members of the national team, on the other hand, are expected to figure prominently in the battle for top honors in their side of the duel in the Filipino Elite Category, setting the stage for a fierce and tactical race from start to finish among the likes of Bea Quiambao, Joshua Ramos, Maynard Pecson and Dayshaun Ramos.

But the significance of the event goes far beyond race day results. Backed by the National Sports Tourism Inter-Agency Council, the Philippine Sports Commission and the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority, the race underscores a broader push to position the Philippines as a premier destination for endurance sports.

Adding intrigue is the modified bike course, which has already drawn attention during pre-race familiarization sessions. Designed to challenge pacing and strategy, it introduces a new layer of complexity that could prove decisive, especially under punishing heat conditions that are expected to test endurance and discipline across all categories.

Beyond podium finishes, athletes will also be chasing coveted qualifying slots to the IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship in Nice, France in September, an incentive that elevates the intensity of the competition. With 50 slots available, evenly split between men and women, the race offers multiple pathways to qualification, including the traditional roll-down system that keeps hopes alive deep into the standings.

The organizing Sunrise Events Inc. is aiming not just for a successful comeback — but for a world-class experience that athletes will remember as one of the best-organized 70.3 races on the global circuit.

The Davao City government echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the event’s role in promoting sports tourism and the well-being of residents. The collaboration extended to the neighboring Municipality of Sta. Cruz, ensuring safety with robust security measures and law enforcement cooperation.

Adding even more star power to the event is the participation of Team BYD in the relay event, a high-profile trio composed of Alden Richards, Will Dasovich and Nico Bolzico. Their involvement brings a dynamic mix of entertainment, athleticism and strong fan appeal, drawing increased attention to the competition.

The buildup has already delivered on that promise. Side events have drawn strong participation and community engagement, highlighted by the record-setting Gwapa Dabaweña Run, which attracted over 3,000 runners last Friday.

The IRONKIDS event showcased the sport’s future in a spirited aquathlon format Saturday, while the Sunrise Sprint triathlon, set alongside the centerpiece event Sunday and designed for both beginners and experienced athletes with its shorter 750-m swim, 20-km bike and 5-km run distance, opens the door for both beginners and experienced athletes to take part alongside the main event.

Adding color and energy to the festivities are the return of Tribu Maisugon, which celebrates the 11 tribes of Davao City, and the Team Tents competition.