Triathletes Natasha Doromal and Eryk Omandam claimed the top spots in the women’s and men’s divisions of IRONMAN 5150 Samal, finishing the 1.5 km swim, 40 km bike, and 10 km run in just over two hours.
(Photo Courtesy: Tirada and Sports Adventure PH)
Samal Island, Philippines — Damosa Land, Inc. recently concluded the highly anticipated debut of the IRONMAN 5150 Triathlon held on September 21 at Bridgeport, Samal Island. The inaugural race was a test of endurance and a statement of place, community, and aspiration for locals in the region.
With over 1,100 athletes participating, the event offered a convergence of athletic performance, local spirit, and the promise of Samal as a destination for global sport and wellness – in line with the homegrown developer’s mission to elevate the region’s sports and wellness opportunities.
To capture the heart of the experience, the story unfolds through the voices of a champion athlete pushing past personal limits, a Samal resident seeing familiar shores in an entirely new light, and an organizer who worked behind the scenes to turn vision into experience.
Natasha Doromal and Eryk Omandam, Race Winners
Among the standout performers of the triathlon were Natasha Doromal and Eryk Omandam, who emerged as champions in the women’s and men’s categories, respectively, after completing the 1.5 km swim, 40 km bike, and 10 km run in just over two hours. Both described the experience as challenging yet rewarding.
“Racing at Samal Island was unforgettable because it marked my personal comeback. Six months ago, I fractured my collarbone and wasn’t sure when I’d race again. The crystal-clear waters, warm support from the local community, and the island’s natural beauty made the experience even more meaningful. There was something healing about racing in such a vibrant place. Samal will always be where I turned pain into purpose and made my strongest return,” said Doromal.
Meanwhile, men’s category winner Eryk described the race as an unforgettable experience, saying it’s not every day he gets to run with such a scenic view. “The race was truly special – the clear waters, scenic roads overlooking Davao Gulf, and the crowd’s energy made it an incredible experience. It was more than just a race; it was the perfect mix of challenge, beauty, and support,” described Omadman.
Lemuel Toto Reyes, Mayor, Island Garden City of Samal (IGaCOS)
For IGaCOS Mayor Lemuel “Toto” Reyes, the triathlon was a moment of communal transformation. It affirmed Samal Island’s potential as a space where local culture, hospitality, and natural beauty converge in service of something greater.
“IRONMAN 5150 has put Samal on the map in a new way. It boosted our tourism, filled our resorts, and brought our community together. Beyond the excitement, this event showed investors and visitors alike that Samal is ready for bigger opportunities. It only goes to show how we are turning into a growing hub for sports, tourism, and sustainable development,” said Mayor Reyes.
The race not only highlighted Samal’s breathtaking landscapes but also revealed its capacity to host international-scale events. The influx of athletes and spectators energized local enterprises, strengthened community participation, and deepened the island’s pride in showcasing its natural and cultural assets to the world.
Ricardo F. Lagdameo, President of Damosa Land
The IRONMAN 5150 race was seen as a breakthrough event in the island. Ricardo “Cary” F. Lagdameo, President of Damosa Land, highlighted the event as the only Ironman‑branded triathlon in Mindanao this year—pointing to Samal’s potential to host events at that level, boosting its tourism.
“At Damosa Land, Inc., our efforts have always been deeply rooted in initiatives that spark a ripple effect of progress. Through events like this, we celebrate athletic excellence and aim to uplift the broader community–from tourism and hospitality to local businesses and grassroots development,” said Lagdameo.
By hosting this inaugural triathlon, Damosa Land aims to elevate Samal as a premier destination for wellness, sports, and tourism. The triathlon supports island-wide economic growth, local engagement, and sustainable tourism, creating an unforgettable experience anchored in community spirit and adventure.
“It’s time we stop gatekeeping and start offering to the world the beauty, talent, and quality of service that Mindanao has to offer. With Bridgeport serving as the backdrop of this
world-class race, we proudly highlight Samal island as a destination in itself, known for its pristine waters, rich marine life, and vibrant potential–all within reach and ready to be discovered,” concluded Lagdameo.
Through the voices of athletes, residents, and organizers, the Damosa Land 5150 in Samal emerges as a collective achievement for all. Athletes test their limits, locals see affirmation of their home’s possibilities, and organizers translate ambition into deliverable experience.
Samal has entered a new chapter, one in which the beauty of the land is matched by the aspirations of its people, and where every finish line is also the starting point of what might yet be.
Discover how Damosa Land contributes to Mindanao’s growth, visit https://damosaland.com/.
