Henri Schoeman and Dutch Els Visser are expected to defend their titles next month when Lapu-Lapu City in Cebu hosts what will be the start of a new Ironman 70.3 decade in the Philippines over a course that will blend breathtaking scenery with unforgiving challenge.

Schoeman, the Olympic medalist from South Africa, and Visser dominated competition last year and along with another men’s ex-champ in August Benedicto will automatically be the favorites once they sign up for the 1.9-kilometer swim, 90-km bike, and 21-km run event presented by Megaworld and Mactan Newtown.

Celebrated globally, the Philippines leg earned the distinction of being the Best Spectator Race in 2018 and has since grown into a marquee event in the international triathlon calendar.

The Lapu-Lapu leg will be over a unique course that weaves through the crystal-clear waters off Mactan Island, an iconic and scenic cycling route, and a festive yet demanding run.

Benedicto finished second in the Subic Bay leg a couple of weeks back, the next big achievement he had on Philippine shores after ruling the Lapu-Lapu leg a few years ago.

Now 41 years old and based in Ireland, Benedicto remains to be the best local hope in the event after clocking 31 minutes and 19 seconds in the swim, two hours and 30:06 on the bike 1:33:59 in the run.