Henri Schoeman defends IRONMAN 70.3 Lapu-Lapu Cebu title

South African triathlete Henri Schoeman successfully defended his title at the IRONMAN 70.3 Lapu-Lapu Cebu on Sunday. Schoeman, 34, overcame intense heat, a choppy swim, and strong winds on the bike course to finish with a time of 4:08:52. His victory was aided by the generosity of local coach Kristiane Lim, who lent Schoeman his bike after the defending champion encountered mechanical issues during the race.

In the women's professional category, Australian Olympian Natalie Van Coevorden secured the win with a time of 4:30:11, leading an all-Australian podium that included Charlotte McShane and Paige Cranage.

In the men's race, Sebastian Fuchs of Austria and Ben Hamilton of New Zealand finished in second and third place, respectively.