THEY may not have the strongest members, the fastest delegates and neither are they the most talented in the crop of über competitive triathletes joining this year’s Ironman 70.3 in Cebu.
But for a triathlon family that is team Ford Forza, joining to stay fit is the prime goal, but a podium finish this time would be a welcome bonus.
“We’re not like other teams who are all excellent, top elite athletes. Our team is a mix of different people,” said actor Matteo Guidicelli, who will lead the team in the “Hollywood” of triathlons in Asia on Aug. 6.
“Yes we have top athletes, but ‘yung iba are ordinary professionals from busy fields,” explained Guidicelli as members of the team were presented to the media Friday at Ascott Makati.
Led by team captain Gianluca Guidecelli, the team boasts of a diverse mix from different industries and age groups such as TV personalities Ivan Carapiet and Dyan Castillejo, Giorgia Guidecelli, cancer survivor Joey Torres, long-time triathletes Elmo Clarabal, Joseph Miller, business manager Ian Solana, coach Noel Salvador and businessman Jomer Lim.
“We want to showcase na kahit saang field ka, you can always go further. But of course we still wanna win also,” Matteo said.
“The team is especially driven this time as we have new members and everyone is just excited to race harder and tougher this year,” added Gianluca.
Inspiring young prospect Christian Saladaga will also beef up the 20-strong team aged 10-50 years old with new members Ralph and Christian Du facing stiff competition against 2,500 athletes from 51 different countries.
Catch the Ford Forza Triathlon team at the following events after the Ironman 70.3: Mt. Mayon ASTC Triathlon Asian Cup 2017 in Bicol on Aug. 17 and the 5150 Triathlon in Bohol on Nov. 5.