CAPAS, Tarlac — National University reclaimed the men’s title, while Far Eastern University made strides in the last three days to annex a record-extending 26th women’s crown as the UAAP athletics championships came to a close on Sunday at the New Clark City Stadium here.
The Bulldogs pulled through in the last three days of intense competition to annex the throne the Jhocson-based tracksters first won two years ago.
Similar to how they navigated the tough road in their quest for redemption the previous season, the Lady Tamaraws set their minds on getting back on track and, consequently, captured the crown in the meet, backed by CF Moto and Masiv Sports, despite trailing behind after the first day.
At the end of the competition, which was shortened by a day due to Super Typhoon “Uwan”, NU amassed 298.5 points for its second men’s championship in three seasons.
“We really worked hard for this season, kasi nga ‘yung pangarap namin noon na mag-back-to-back champion nung nakaraang taon ay naudlot kasi may mga players na hindi nakalaro kasi sa eligibility at dahil nga sa injuries. This year, medyo maganda at walang injuries; dinasal namin ‘to kay Lord na sana maging 100 percent kami para maging strong enough kami to regain the championship,” said Bulldogs coach Fernan Dagasdas.
FEU made a last-gasp charge in an attempt to end an eight-year title drought, but still finished second with 272.25 points behind NU. Last year’s champions, University of the Philippines, slipped to third with 213.25 points.