LAOAG City is set to open a new chapter in Philippine triathlon history as it welcomes Ironman 70.3 in 2027 bringing one of the world’s most recognized endurance events to Ilocos Norte for the first time and launching what promises to be a landmark season for the country’s growing triathlon community.
The inaugural Ironman 70.3 Laoag will mark the first time the Ilocos Norte capital hosts a triathlon of this scale, offering athletes a fast, accessible course while introducing them and their families to a destination rich in history, culture, cuisine and northern hospitality.
Set against the distinctive character of Laoag, the race will combine a 1.9-km swim, 90-km bike and 21.1-km run with a destination experience unlike any other on the Philippine Ironman calendar.
From the waters of Sadiri Beach to the wide northern roads and historic streets at the heart of the city, athletes can expect a course shaped by both speed and scenery.
Registration is now open. For details, visit www.ironman.com/races/im703-laoag.
Known as the Sunshine City, the Ilocos Norte capital offers a warm, almost always-summer character that lends itself naturally to a race weekend, while its relatively compact urban setting provides athletes and spectators an accessible base from which to experience the best of the city and the wider province.
Laoag City Mayor James Bryan Alcid said the event provides the city with an opportunity to introduce its character and hospitality to a much wider international audience.
‘We are proud to welcome Ironman 70.3 and the athletes, families and supporters who will come to experience Laoag City,’ Alcid said. ‘This event gives us an opportunity to share what makes our city special-our history, our culture, our food, our people and the genuine warmth with which we welcome our visitors.’
For organizing Sunrise Events Inc., the race represents an opportunity to expand the Philippine Ironman experience into a destination with its own distinct character.
‘We are especially excited for athletes to discover Laoag for the first time through Ironman 70.3,’ SEI president and managing director Princess Galura said. ‘From the ocean swim and fast northern roads to the city finish and everything athletes can experience away from the course, this race is about creating new stories in a new destination.’
Michelle Pepper, managing director of Asia-Pacific for the Ironman Group, said the organization was excited to bring the race to a new part of the country.
‘We’re proud to have had Ironman and Ironman 70.3 triathlon races in the Philippines since 2009,’ Pepper said. ‘It has been great to see the local triathlon community grow over the years, and for so many athletes from around the world to have experienced racing in the country during that time.’