Race kits sat alongside holiday essentials in the luggage of competitors and their families as the 21st Indofood Bintan Triathlon took over Lagoi Bay from October 2 to 4, 2026, adding a sporting chapter to the Indonesian island’s leisure appeal.
The event drew participants from 32 countries, with around 60 per cent travelling from overseas. The strong international turnout reaffirmed the triathlon’s position as one of the region’s leading sporting events and showed its growing appeal among both competitive athletes and active-lifestyle travellers.
The race put the destination on display at every stage. Participants swam in Lagoi Bay, cycled through the resort precinct and ran along the waterfront, combining competition with destination discovery.
Besides the Olympic, Sprint, Relay and Duathlon categories, the programme included Youth, Kids, Splash & Dash and Family Duo races, giving participants of all ages a place in the event. This range strengthened its appeal as both a premier sporting event and a family-friendly travel experience.
“Signature sporting events are integral to our long-term vision for destination growth,” said Abdul Wahab, Chief Operating Officer of Bintan Resorts. “Twenty-one editions on, the Bintan Triathlon has evolved into one of the region’s most anticipated sporting events, consistently attracting international participants, encouraging repeat visits and showcasing Bintan as a world-class sports and leisure destination.”
First held in 2005, the Bintan Triathlon has grown into one of the island’s flagship annual events and a key driver of sports tourism. The 2026 edition carried that legacy forward, offering participants and supporters a rewarding race experience against the coastal backdrop of Lagoi Bay, along with the chance to explore the rest of Bintan.
Bintan Resorts is an integrated tourism destination on Bintan Island, Riau Islands, Indonesia. Featuring 23 world- class resorts along the northern coastline and four golf courses designed by renowned designers. The destination offers seamless accessibility, with a 60-minute catamaran ferry ride from Singapore. A newly introduced 1-hour 30-minute direct ferry service also connects Pasir Gudang Ferry Terminal in Johor Bahru, Malaysia to Bandar Bentan Telani Ferry Terminal in Bintan Resorts. Additionally, direct flights are available from Jakarta to Tanjung Pinang and Batam Island, making it an ideal vacation choice.
