Nicole Andaya heads to the Sun Life 5150 Bohol Triathlon blasting off on Sunday in Panglao with momentum firmly on her side and one clear objective — finally capturing the title that has so far eluded one of the country’s rising endurance stars.

Fresh from victories in the 5150 Dapitan last year and the inaugural FAB 5150 in Bataan late in 2025, the co-founder of the Usuals Multisport team returns to Bohol carrying confidence, experience and a winning mindset as she chases the major 5150 crown missing from her growing collection.

Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, the Sun Life 5150 Bohol Triathlon has established itself as one of the country’s longest-running and most prestigious Olympic-distance races. The event attracts many of the nation’s top elite and age-group triathletes, with competitors from at least 23 countries adding to this year’s strong international field.

Andaya came close to the title in 2023, winding up third, and now hopes to turn that podium finish into a breakthrough victory.

A favorite in the women’s 30-34 age-group division, she is also expected to contend for the overall championship in the Olympic-distance race featuring a 1.5-km swim, 40-km bike ride and 10-km run over a course that demands endurance, speed and tactical discipline.

Ines Santiago, another accomplished and multi-titled triathlete, is determined to contend for the women’s 45-49 age-group crown while also setting her sights on a strong overall performance that could earn her a place on the event’s overall championship podium. Backed by years of racing experience and a proven winning pedigree, Santiago enters the competition as one of the leading contenders, aiming to showcase both consistency and speed against a highly competitive field.

Race organizers said preparations are centered on delivering a safe, efficient and memorable competition as athletes tackle Bohol’s challenging course, where rolling terrain, tropical conditions and scenic coastal stretches promise another stern test for the field.

Expected to challenge Andaya for the overall honors and in their respecitive age-group categories are Jaymee Castillo, Patricia Peralta, Alyssa Platukis, Gracelle Samson, Emily Hammond, Katrina Bisuña, Joy Angela Ignacio, Dawn Bernaldez, Eunice Vergara, Princess Suyat, Mary Junko Oñae and Katrina Arellano.