Since 2009, Sugbutriathlon has been at the heart of endurance sports in Cebu, Philippines — organizing triathlon, duathlon, aquathlon, and running events that inspire athletes and energize the community. The team is powered by a small yet passionate core group, dedicated volunteers, and loyal supporters, led by the ever-driven Coach Benjoe Gimenez.
History
From 2004 to 2008, triathlon in Cebu faced a challenging period. At its lowest, the city hosted just one race a year — the National Age-Group Triathlon Series, organized by Mr. Boying Rodriguez and TRAP, which thankfully kept the sport alive.
Recognizing the need to revive and reignite the local triathlon scene, a special gathering of Cebu’s triathletes was called on December 20, 2008 — a Christmas party hosted at Dax Sarabosing’s residence in Talamban. The event was spearheaded by RJ Balbuena, Anthony Regis, Coach Benjoe Gimenez, and Dax Sarabosing, with the presence of Jose Ricardo Dizon and the spirited Team Tri-locos: Eugene Sanchez, Jun Villamor, Jerome Mill, Ian Gonzaga, and Atty. Roger Cuenco.
That night, surrounded by camaraderie and a shared love for the sport, the group agreed on one thing: triathlon in Cebu must live again.
And so, Sugbutriathlon was born to make that vision happen.
The First Race — Pipti-Pipti Triathlon
To kickstart the movement, the group staged the first-ever Pipti-Pipti Triathlon on January 25, 2009 at Scuba World, Mactan Island. It was a super sprint triathlon (300m swim – 15km bike – 3km run) — short, friendly, and fun for all levels.
There were no bike racks, no cash prizes, and the registration fee was just ₱50 — hence the name “Pipti-Pipti” (50-50). What began as friends inviting friends turned into a historic moment, with over 30 participants joining. This was the spark that reignited Cebu’s triathlon spirit.
From that day on, the momentum was unstoppable. In 2009 alone, Sugbutriathlon, together with Mr. Boying Rodriguez and the Danao City Sports Commission, organized 12 triathlons and 4 duathlons.
Growing Strong
Over the years, Sugbutriathlon grew into an independent event organizer, supported by a tight-knit and passionate community. While juggling full-time work and family commitments, the core team — Coach Benjoe Gimenez, Anthony Regis, Joel Peconcillo, Jess Arriola, and Jose Ricardo Dizon — continued to deliver successful, memorable races.
The group takes pride in witnessing an explosion of new triathletes and event organizers in Cebu and beyond. Even more heartening is seeing athletes give back to the sport — mentoring, volunteering, and inspiring the next generation.
With the fire burning brighter than ever, triathlon in Cebu and the neighboring islands has never looked more promising!