11/06/2026
OT SPORTS | 𝗕𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗰𝘁𝗼, 𝗤𝘂𝗶𝗮𝗺𝗯𝗮𝗼 𝗥𝘂𝗹𝗲 𝗜𝗥𝗢𝗡𝗠𝗔𝗡 𝟳𝟬.𝟯 𝗦𝘂𝗯𝗶𝗰 𝗕𝗮𝘆
SUBIC BAY FREEPORT ZONE — Veteran triathlete August Benedicto proved that experience remains a powerful weapon in endurance racing, while Bea Quiambao delivered another commanding performance as they topped the 10th Century Tuna IRONMAN 70.3 Subic Bay on Sunday, June 7, 2026.
Benedicto, 42, captured the men’s championship after completing the challenging course in four hours, 40 minutes, and 38 seconds. His victory stood out in a competitive field that included younger and international contenders, showing his composure, race discipline, and finishing strength in one of the country’s major triathlon events.
Russia’s Ilya Fedorov finished second with a time of 4:41:50, while Iceland’s Geir Omarsson secured third place in 4:44:49.
Benedicto’s win did not come easily. After trailing early in the 1.9-kilometer swim leg, he worked his way back into contention during the 90-kilometer bike segment before making his decisive push in the 21-kilometer run. His late surge proved crucial as he overtook the leaders in the final stretch and powered his way to the finish.
In the women’s division, Quiambao continued to show her strength as one of the country’s leading triathletes. She completed the race in five hours, 37 minutes, and 14 seconds to claim the women’s title despite difficult weather conditions that tested the endurance and focus of the participants.
Japan’s Mitsuki Tanaka-Tan finished close behind with a time of 5:37:21, while Anne Nuñez placed third in 5:39:19.
The race was held under dark skies and rain-threatened conditions, adding another layer of difficulty to an already demanding course. Athletes had to manage not only the physical demands of the swim, bike, and run segments, but also the pressure of changing weather and a highly competitive field.
Benedicto and Quiambao were also recognized with the Bagong Bayani Award, highlighting their performances as Filipino athletes who continue to raise the country’s presence in endurance sports.
The milestone staging of IRONMAN 70.3 Subic Bay once again placed Subic Bay Freeport Zone in the spotlight as a premier destination for major triathlon events, drawing athletes, supporters, and sports enthusiasts to one of the country’s most recognized race venues.
Courtesy: Manila Bulletin
