ARELLANO University launches its three-peat feat bid as the 93rd NCAA track and field tournament unfolds today at the Philsports oval in Pasig City.
After ending Jose Rizal’s five-year title reign two seasons ago, the Chiefs retained their crown by accumulating 740 points to edge eventual second placer Mapua a season ago.
Apart from Mapua, AU is expected to face a tough challenge from JRU, College of St. Benilde and Perpetual Help.
AU coach Paulino Coloma is expected to draw strength from its long-distance runners and throwers that served as their foundation to complete their back-to-back reign.
A whopping eight golds will be staked on Day One in the seniors’ pole vault, juniors discus throw and long jump and seniors long jump in the morning events and seniors discus throw, juniors’ and seniors’ 100m and juniors’ 2000m.
The next day will give out 12 golds, while the third and final day, which is set on Monday, will hand out four mints.
PATAFA chief Philip Juico will usher in the tournament in simple opening rites.
Emilio Aguinaldo, for its part, shoots for a fifth straight title in the juniors’ division