All set for Tabuelan triathlon

CEBU, Philippines - Everything is already in place for the Tabuelan 111 Triathlon tomorrow at the Maravilla Beach Resort despite the threat posed by tropical storm Butchoy.

A total of 262 triathletes have already signed up for the event organized by Tagghap Tri Club in association with Sugbutriathlon.

"Yes, the race will push through as scheduled on Sunday," said organizer Junki Flores.

Australian pro triathlete Dan Brown will be the man to beat in the full distance covering a two-kilometer swim, 88K bike and 21K run.

Expected to give the Vellum-sponsored Brown a run for his money are the likes of former Philippine Team member Gerrie Calinawan, Xterra Philippines Filipino elite runner-up Elmo Clarabal, Sugbutriathlon president Ralph Arche, Emmanuel Comendador, Franklin Echevarria, Christopher Eyao and Jonahs Tan.

Mendel Lopez and Philip Duenas, both multi-titled long distance runners who are into triathlon now, hope to steal the show from the more seasoned triathletes.

In the distaff side, Rochelle Tan is among the top bets to watch out for. The rest include Cleolett Ty, Felina Tadiaman, Michelle Shlachter, Jane-Jane Ong, Rachel Ngo, Anna Maria Neric, Vangie Janea, Rowena Duarte, Merly Colmenares, Sherilyn Anne Bacus and Pamela Apuhin.

In the relay category, close to 20 teams have confirmed their entry.

The champion in the men's elite division will take home P10,000, while the second and third will receive P7,000 and P5,000, respectively. The top three in the women's open will receive P5,000, P3,000 and P2,000. (FREEMAN)