Unforgettable Xterra tilt in Danao being prepared

IT will be a triathlon to remember.

That is the promise made by Fifth District Representative Ramon “Red” Durano IV to the triathletes competing in Danao City’s first hosting of the grueling Xterra Philippines on April 23.

Durano IV, a triathlete himself, said Danao City in north Cebu, will host the international triathlon for the next three years per the signed contract between Danao City and Sunrise Events Inc. (SEI).

Durano IV, SEI General Manager Princess Galura, Cebu Provincial Administrator Atty. Mark Tolentino and Cebu Provincial Sports Commission (CPSC) Executive Director Atty. Ramil Abing had a closed door meeting yesterday to discuss the preparations for the 1.5-kilometer swim, 35K off-road bike and 10K trail run race

Danao City, popular for hosting top international mountain bike races, is expecting 300-400 triathletes from more than a dozen countries in the race which is part of the Xterra Asia Pacific Tour.

“This is a great opportunity to really promote Danao City. Danao has the experience in hosting international sports events as we have hosted the Asian Mountainbike Championships before,” said Durano VI. “We will do our best to really showcase Danao City and provide an unforgettable race to the participants.”

The race will start and finish at the Coco Palm Beach Resort. The bike route as well as the trail run will be traversing the scenic mountain ranges of the city.

“We all know that the Xterra La Union was cancelled so a lot of triathletes who have already trained will be in Danao and we are ready to give them a fun and exciting race,” said Galura.

Aside from Danao City, Durano IV will also coordinate with neighboring towns of Compostela, former Xterra host Lilo-an and Carmen as it is expected that the city’s resorts, hotels and pension houses will be fully booked.