Champion Couple: Gentle, Amberger rule 2023 Ironman 70.3 Asia-Pacific Championships at Langkawi, Malaysia

The tropical paradise island of Langkawi, Malaysia played host to the prestigious Ironman 70.3 Asia-Pacific Championships, and it did not disappoint.

In a race marked by humid conditions, challenging terrain, and contrastingly overcast skies competitors from across the Asia-Pacific region and beyond showcased their mettle in one Asia’s most esteemed triathlon location.

In the men’s elite race, Josh Amberger combined the strength of his race-best swim of 23:15 and  race-best run of 1:19:30 to finish in 3:50:47 and win over Kiwi Mike Phillips by 1 minute and 36 seconds. “I am super happy to win another 70.3 Asia-Pacific title, and to do it amidst the conditions here in Langkawi, and the brutal course made it extra special,” said Amberger.

Ashleigh Gentle lived up to her No.1 PTO World Ranking by dominating the women’s elite race, finishing with a time of 4:10:17, a 5 minute and 47 second win over New Zealand’s Amelia Watkinson.   In a near flawless race despite an early bout with jelly fish sting, Gentle paced all her competitors in the bike-run leg, posting the best times on each leg to dominate on the win.   “I had been caught early with jelly fish sting on the first turn buoy, it’s part of the race and there’s nothing I really could do about it but put my head down and focus on the race.   I am glad that Josh had overcome an early deficit in the run, egging him on when I saw him when I was on my first loop.  Having 2 championships into 1 feels pretty good,” added Gentle.