Sipalay City Hosts First Leg of International Open Water Swim Circuit in Western Visayas

Sipalay City, Negros Occidental – The Department of Tourism-Western Visayas (DOT-6) is ready for the first of the four-leg International Open Water Swim Circuit, set to begin on February 18 in Sipalay City. According to Philippines News Agency, the event, featuring around 150 swimmers for its initial leg, was announced by Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson, Mayor Maria Gina Lizares, and DOT-6 Regional Director Crisanta Marlene Rodriguez. The officials expressed optimism about the event’s reception and its potential impact on the region.

The competition aims to position Western Visayas as a premier destination for sports and ecotourism, focusing on open water swimming. Rodriguez highlighted the event’s objective to foster a strong connection between humans and nature through sustainable tourism and community initiatives. Furthermore, it seeks to promote conservation and management of natural habitats to maintain the ecological integrity of the area.

Participants of the circuit will include both local and international athletes, ranging from open water swimmers to triathletes, attracted by the unique opportunity to compete in natural water bodies across the region. The first race will take place at the Campomanes-Ballo Marine Reserve and Sanctuary, known for its rich marine biodiversity.

Subsequent legs of the circuit are scheduled across various picturesque locations in Western Visayas: Sicogon Island in Carles, Iloilo on April 14; Taklong Island in Nueva Valencia, Guimaras on June 30; and the final leg in Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan on September 22. Each location offers swimmers distinct challenges and the chance to experience the region’s natural beauty firsthand.