Using triathlon to save our seas

For many of us, sports often takes a backseat to getting a job, raising a family, building a career. But the current army of workplace veterans has found that balance is a necessary ingredient in maintaining the hectic pace of work. Running has experienced a renaissance of its peak in the 1980’s, and triathlon is at its peak popularity, as evidenced by the massive participation and crowds now flooding Mactan in Cebu for an international triathlon. For an entire generation of former weekend warriors, there needs to be an intermediary step between your first 10-kilometer run and a full-blown marathon or even a triathlon relay event. From Sept. 25 to 27, The Bellevue Resort in Bohol provides an answer, with the added purpose of saving its pristine seas.

“This is the second year of the Camp Alpha series, which is comprised of intermediate to advanced level training for Age Group (amateur/executive) triathletes. The ‘GoPro Camp Alpha: Epic Bohol’ is the third leg for the year, and is the first time I’ll be organizing a camp in Bohol,” says Andy Leuterio, director and head coach of Alpha Training Systems. “I’m excited to work with Bellevue Resort as they have been very enthusiastic about holding such a camp. We first discussed the possibility back in February, and after seeing the course last April (I also joined their Defy 123 race), I was convinced that we could pull off a very special training camp.”

On the first day, Leuterio will lead the class in strength training for triathletes, as well as a run clinic. Day Two will see the group take on a 150-kilometer bike ride. The last day will challenge the participants with extreme open water swimming called “Swim Our Islands”, a rare open-sea event, for two and four kilometers, respectively. It will be quite an investment in time, energy and resources, but Leuterio insists that the effort will be worth it.

Of course, Bellevue Bohol is no stranger to actively promoting care for the environment. With the help of the MVP Group, they have been protecting three marine life species that are indigenous to Bohol and found only in the waters around Panglao Island, including a type of hammerhead shark. It is this corporate dedication in the face of the tremendous adversities that the province has faced that has inspired many Boholanos to likewise maintain their respect for the seas.

“Tourism continues to be a crucial industry for the Philippines’ economy,” explains Ryan Chan, corporate director for marketing and communications of The Bellevue Hotels and Resorts. “However, we’ve seen time and time again how natural wonders can be vandalized by irresponsible visitors. This is the reason why we are merging the beauty of Bohol and the discipline of athletes to spark a new breed of informed and responsible travelers.”

GoPro Camp Alpha: Epic Bohol will be a very special and long training weekend for age-groupers who want to learn more about the art and science of competitive age group triathlon. As on anything, it will take time, patience, and a larger degree of commitment. Participants must understand that it will be just one of many steps in achieving breakthroughs in fitness. It will not be easy. But what is important is the knowledge and coaching that will help newcomers avoid setbacks.

“For Epic Bohol, coach Moi Yamoyam of Swim Academy Phl agreed to partner with me in order to simplify the logistics involved in holding a three-day event,” Leuterio adds. “Coach Moi previously helped me in the Subic leg and is an expert at organizing challenging but safe open water swim events. 

With the Camp Alpha series, Leuterio’s aim is to share his coaching knowledge with fellow age groupers who are looking for a fun, challenging, and immersive training environment to help them achieve breakthrough fitness. On the physical side, there are lessons on familiarization with the various intensities, cadences, and other techniques in each discipline. The training will also include discussions on nutrition, hydration, equipment selection for various courses, and even mental preparation. More importantly, the camp provides a competitive environment for like-minded athletes that is difficult to achieve in an ordinary solo training day or weekend. 

“I’m proud to say that quite a few veteran Camp participants have achieved breakthrough performances and outright age group wins,” Leuterio adds, “such as Celma Hitalia (second overall female at the recent Milo 21k, consistent podium finisher at practically any tri she enters), Vanj Endaya (consistent podium finisher/winner), Aries Cajucom (finished the 2015 Celtman extreme iron-distance triathlon), and many more. As a coach, I lead from the front and continue to share all that I know and continually to learn about triathlon.”

“Bohol is a paradise and Panglao Island is its crowning glory,” Chan affirms. “Its creamy-white sands, ethereal blue waters and vast marine life is the perfect backdrop to Swim Our Islands and Epic Bohol. This location is sure to amaze our local and international participants. Swim Our Islands and Epic Bohol partner and support local government efforts to spread awareness and preserve biodiversity in Panglao Island.”

Those interested to join Epic Bohol and Swim Our Islands may e-mail [email protected] for details.