THREE-PEAT-SEEKING Arellano University bared its title intention early as Aristeo dela Pena took the long jump gold at the start of the 93rd NCAA track and field competition at the Philsports oval in Pasig City.
Dela Pena leapt 7.00 meters flat, besting San Sebastian’s Ronald Canaria and Mapua’s Angelo Esguerra, who took the silver and bronze with jumps of 6.90m and 6.80m, respectively.
Jessie Boy Bayan delivered a silver in the pole vault with 3.80m in the event topped by Letrans Harvey Unico, who took the gold in 4m.
Mapua’s Dave Geraldino grabbed the bronze in 3.40m.
In juniors’ action, San Beda and Perpetual Help likewise launched its campaign to unseat defending titlist Emilio Aguinaldo College as it registered a pair of 1-2 finishes in the discus throw and long jump.
San Beda’s John Rafael Lamatan and Gideon Arellano University took the silver and gold in discus throw while Perpetual Help’s Warren Villaroso and Janseengin Mantecina wound up first and second in long jump.
Athletics chief Philip Ella Juico graced the opening of the three-day meet.
It was also attended by Management Committee members including track and field organizing head Frank Gusi of Perpetual Help.
