The road to a second straight title finish won’t be easy for Mexican triathlete and defending champion Mauricio Mendez

Photos by Samantha Ong

Mauricio Mendez did not hesitate for a second when asked about defending his title at this year’s Regent Aguila Ironman 70.3 Philippines in Cebu. “I’m confident because I know I can win this race. I have won here and in other countries as well so I know this one will work out perfectly,” Mendez says

Mauricio Mendez is dubbed the man to beat at this year's race — Mauricio Mendez is dubbed the man to beat at this year’s race

Mendez is dubbed as the man to beat in this year’s race

The 23-year-old Mexican is after all the youngest XTERRA World Champion in history and has multiple titles under his belt—including his first place finish at the 2018 Alvero Ironman 70.3 in Davao and at last year’s Asia-Pacific Championship. Mendez is not only a fan favorite but he’s also the man to beat this year.

The Philippines is one of Mendez’s favorite countries and it’s not hard to see why. Before the audience and the media met all the professionals competing this year, Mendez had his own meet-and-greet where fans showed up to take pictures and get their merchandise signed. It’s amazing if you think about it—how the young man is already some sort of a sports celebrity and inspiration to many.

Mau Mendez loves racing in the Philippines because he feels the country has become his second home. #IM703Philippines #AguilaIM703 #IMasia pic.twitter.com/C8ASuIQspp

— Multisport.ph (@MultiSportPH) August 9, 2019

Mauricio’s love for the Philippines

Besides Mendez’s boyish charm and attractive personality, Filipinos have warmed up to him due to his genuine love for the country. It was evident in his body language and how he joyfully approached every fan who wanted a moment with him. It’s also the reason why he’s always inspired to give it his all in every tournament he competes in the Philippines. Last year, Mendez clocked in 3:21:29 and finished 41 seconds faster than runner-up Tyler Butterfield.

Mauricio Mendez had his own meet-and-greet with his fans

“I’m amazed with Filipinos because they really make me feel like I’m at home. For me to experience [this kind of love] in another part of the world is huge,” says Mauricio Mendez. “The vibes and smiles I get over here makes me want to respond the same way by showing the Filipinos the best version of myself”

Defending the crown

Mendez is fully aware of the odds he’s facing in the quest to his title defense. He will be going up against equally strong athletes like 2016 70.3 World Champion and 2019 Ironman 70.3 Subic champion Tim Reed and 2016 Ironman Asia-Pacific champion Tim Van Berkel. The Mexican is also on a mission to bounce back from his painful ninth place finish at this year’s Alveo Ironman 70.3 Davao where he suffered a technical mishap during the bike leg of the race.

There will be 20 professionals competing at this year's race — There will be 20 professionals competing at this year’s race

“This time, I’m completely sure the bike is perfectly well. I did mechanical work and if that goes well the race is going to be perfect,” says Mendez. “I’m fit and healthy. It’s going to be a good battle out there.”