A weekend of sports, family, and future champions in Cebu
The sun had barely risen over Mactan when the shores of Lapu-Lapu City came alive with energy and excitement. Hundreds of kids—swimmers, runners, and dreamers—gathered at Dusit Thani Mactan for the highly anticipated IRONKIDS Lapu-Lapu 2025.
But for RLC Residences, a proud partner of the event, this wasn’t just about winning medals. It was about helping kids grow into champions in life—instilling discipline, sportsmanship, and confidence that go beyond the race course.
A Record-Breaking IRONKIDS Finale
This year’s IRONKIDS was extra special. As the final leg of the 2025 IRONKIDS Philippines series, it brought together the biggest number of young participants in the event’s history. Kids from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao took on the swim-run challenge with grit and smiles, proving that the sport’s popularity is on the rise among Filipino youth.
Moments of perseverance, teamwork, and camaraderie were everywhere—reminding everyone that the real victory is measured by personal growth and shared joy.
RLC Residences’ Growing Junior Triathlon Team
RLC Residences has been steadily nurturing its Junior Triathlon Team, which started with just eight members and now proudly boasts 20 athletes from across the country.
“Raising little champions is about empowering families to guide and support young athletes in a caring community,” shared Karen Cesario, Senior Director and Marketing Head of RLC Residences.
Their hard work paid off at the race:
Amy Takei – 1st place, Girls 6–8
Johan Benedict Santos – 1st place, Boys 6–8
Xavier Benedict Belleza – 3rd place, Boys 6–8
Family Day: Where Fun Meets Preparation
Two years ago, RLC Residences introduced Family Day before race weekend—a lively get-together where young athletes and their families bond over games, mini challenges, and lots of laughter.
Cesario explains that this tradition is more than just fun. “It’s where kids feel supported, and parents find a community that shares the same dreams for their children,” she said. “We’re building something that inspires future triathletes and strengthens family ties.”
Inspiration from the Pros and Parents
The weekend’s spirit extended beyond the kids’ race. Coaches Ronald Molit and Alex Martin, along with proud IRONKIDS dads Hiroshi Takei and Nemiel Santos, competed in the IRONMAN 70.3 Lapu-Lapu.
They showed the young athletes that passion and resilience know no age limits. Their results were equally impressive, with Takei finishing 6th in the Men’s 50–54 category and the relay team of Paulo Cañas, Atty. Manley Cardinez, and Rafael Silerio placing 14th overall.
Why This Matters for Filipino Families
Sports like triathlon don’t just build physical skills—they teach kids life lessons: dedication, teamwork, and the ability to push through challenges. In a world where screens often dominate free time, events like IRONKIDS give children real-world experiences that shape character.
If you have a child with a budding interest in sports, events like this could be their stepping stone to a lifelong passion.