An ace from Germany in action in Asia for the first time will join 12 other women in search of the central title at Ironman (IM) 70.3, which begins on Sunday in Lapu-Lapu, Cebu City.
“This is my inaugural IM 70.3 in Asia and I anticipate a challenging race,” said Anne Reischmann, a three-time top 10 at the 70.3 World Championships. “I've heard a lot of positive reviews, especially about the energetic crowds along the route. So I’m definitely excited.”
More than 1,300 entries will form the initial field on Sunday, as spots for the VinFast World Championship in Taupo, New Zealand, in December – 45 of them in total – will be up for grabs across multiple divisions.
Australian Aleisha Wesley, holder of multiple titles in duathlon, sprint and standard distances, is listed as the main threat and is determined to win her first IM 70.3 crown after finishing fifth in Melbourne last year.
Duke on the field
Well-known Filipino and multi-titled activist Dimity-Lee Duke will attempt to relive her past triumphs, including a breakthrough victory in the Subic 5150 in 2017.
Lottie Lucas of the UAE, who finished third at last year's IM 70.3 Davao, is also expected to compete, along with Els Visser of the Netherlands, who placed 15th at last year's World Championships and recently secured runner-up in I'm New Zealand.
Others tipped for success are Hungary's Zsanett Bragmayer, who finished 12th at the Tokyo Olympics and will make her debut in 70.3, second-year professional Leanne Szeto from Hong Kong, who took second place overall in her age group at IM 70.3 Desaru Coast, Malaysia. last year, and Kiwi Angharad Llewellyn, who took 12th place in his first IM 70.3 event at Geelong on the Oceania circuit last month.
Unable to save your signature. Please try again.
Your subscription was successful.
