Ironman 70.3 Desaru Coast makes a comeback

KUALA LUMPUR – The Desaru Coast Multisport Festival by Ironman makes its return for the second time following an overwhelming success during its debut last year which saw over 1,800 participants from 50 countries. 

This year’s Desaru Coast Multisport Festival from May 12 to 14 will feature the Ironman 70.3 Desaru Coast, 5150 Triathlon, Desaru Coast Sprint Triathlon, and the Ironkids Desaru Coast events. 

Ironman Asia managing director Jeff Edwards promised yet another unique experience for adrenaline junkies as well as first-time triathlon participants this year. 

“Last year’s turnout goes to show that the appeal of this event is not just among Malaysians, but the international audience as well. 

“We aim to make this year’s experience even better. There is a race for every level and we hope to encourage the growth of the multisport community,” he said in a statement. 

Meanwhile, Desaru Coast managing director and chief executive officer Roslina Arbak said last year’s success has motivated them to make this year’s event bigger and more exciting for athletes and guests. 

“It is our longstanding commitment to continue raising the profile of Desaru Coast and the state of Johor in the international Ironman circuit, making sports tourism a collective pilar of success for us,” she said. 

During the event’s debut last year, the Desaru Coast management had signed a three-year contract with Ironman to secure plans to host more multisport festivals in the future. 

Participants of the Ironman 70.3 Desaru Coast will have a shot at qualifying for the World Championships in Finland this July as there are 58 qualification slots available. 

This includes 25 slots specially reserved for female participants which come as a testament to the unwavering support by the organisers to encourage mass female participation. 

The 58 slots also include 33 reserved for the top age groupers, many of who have already been preparing for this race for a long time. – The Vibes, April 13, 2023