Lukosz man to watch in Century Tuna IM

MANILA, Philippines — Petr Lukosz aims for a second full IRONMAN Philippines victory in three years, leading a diverse mix of international contenders in the Century Tuna IM Philippines set to fire off on June 9 at Subic Bay Boardwalk.

Lukosz defied overwhelming odds, including a stellar field and the intense heat, to win the grueling 3.8km swim, 180km bike and 42.2km marathon in 2022. He became the first triathlete to cross an IRONMAN finish line in Asia post-pandemic, breaching the 10-hour barrier with a remarkable 09:52:34 clocking.

Despite falling short in his age-group category in the recent IRONMAN 70.3 in Cebu, the Czech corporate executive remains the triathlete to watch in the upcoming full-distance edition of the premier endurance race organized by The IRONMAN Group.

The IRONMAN Philippines has attracted 369 bidders from 44 countries, promising another thrilling and exciting competition that has characterized the first three editions of the event, requiring not just power, speed and stamina but also mental toughness.

The host country is fielding 147 entries, led by athletes such as Jemuel Clemente, who finished 13th overall in last year’s edition won by Dutch Erik van der Linden. Other notable Filipino competitors are Daniel Valdez, Ramon Abeleda, Gabb Rosario, Lexter Ansaldo, Rolando Alquero and Edgar Puruganan.