Tri SND Barracuda Secures Historic Third Consecutive Tribu Maisugon Championship
In a stunning display of endurance and unity, Tri SND Barracuda has triumphed once again, capturing the Tribu Maisugon team championship for the third year in a row at the BYD Ironman 70.3 Davao event held on March 22, 2026. The team amassed an impressive 38,126.8 points to claim the top spot and a substantial P500,000 cash prize, solidifying their dominance in the competitive triathlon scene.
Team Effort and Resilience Under Extreme Conditions
The victory unfolded under the scorching sun along Davao City Coastal Road, where Tri SND Barracuda showcased remarkable resilience and teamwork. Key contributors included Celma Hitalia, Arthur Abogado, Joanna Marie Cruz, Leyann Ramo, Lyllian Banzon, Maria Norisa Goc-Ong, Michael Acas, Romeo Calamohoy, Gene Heart Quiambao, Edgie Arances, and Ulwan Dimaporo, each delivering strong performances across various age categories.
Wendell Gaco of Tri SND Barracuda emphasized the challenges faced, stating in an interview with SunStar Davao, "It was a pressure-packed title defense, but we stayed focused on our training. The journey wasn’t easy—most of our members are observing Ramadan—but everyone gave their all. Our non-Muslim members stepped up to contribute, and the group stayed complete and united nationwide."
Podium Finishers and Celebrity Highlights
Baguio Benguet Triathlon Team secured second place with 33,490.3 points, while Opus Land Multisport rounded out the podium with 32,320 points. Notably, celebrity triathlete Aira Lourdes Lopez, who won the female 25 to 29 category, played a crucial role in Opus Land Multisport's success.
Leyann Ramo, who placed second overall in the women's division and topped the female 30-34 class, shared her thoughts on Facebook: "Grateful to always find purpose when I race not just for myself, but for my team. There’s a different kind of strength that comes from knowing you’re part of something bigger, a family that believes in you every step of the way. Thank you, God, for the strength and the opportunity to represent Tri SND Barracuda. It’s truly an honor to be part of this team."
Overcoming Adversity and Celebrating Milestones
Team member Necie Grace reflected on the grueling swim leg in a Facebook post, writing, "Not gonna lie, that swim was a struggle. The current was strong, and there were moments I had to really push just to stay on pace. But I reminded myself why I was there—to do my part for the team. I finished my leg with everything I had left and trusted them fully to take it from there. Proud of what we built together."
The team also celebrated a significant milestone, marking 10 years of relay racing with a post that read, "Officially 10 years of swimming relays for the best team Tri SND Barracuda, and still forever grateful for the people behind every feat… Alhamdullilah!!"
Keys to Success: Preparation and Perseverance
In a team statement, Tri SND Barracuda highlighted the importance of preparation and perseverance, noting, "Heat, pressure, and sacrifice… Coming off from Ramadan, the journey wasn’t easy—but it taught us patience, discipline, and gratitude. Every training day, every sacrifice, quietly prepared us for this moment. Race day reminded us it’s not always about being the strongest, but about staying steady, trusting the process, and showing up with heart."
The team credited their coaches, Ani De Leon-Brown and Next Step Tri, along with sponsors, for their unwavering support throughout the journey. This victory not only cements Tri SND Barracuda's legacy but also inspires future athletes in the triathlon community.
