By: Miguel Marco
CAPAS, Tarlac – Adamson University’s Abdul Saud proved that hard work pays off, one step at a time.
The 19-year-old Kidapawan native dominated the 5,000-meter race walk in the UAAP Season 88 High School Boys’ Athletics at New Clark City Stadium here, securing Adamson’s first gold and smashing the league record with a time of 23:55.35.
Saud’s new mark erased the previous UAAP record of 25:59.95, set by UST’s Gabriel Cervantes in Season 86 on Nov. 22, 2023.
It was sweet redemption for Saud, who had settled for silver last season in the same event. This time, he not only reclaimed the top spot but also set a new benchmark.
“Sobrang saya ko kasi last year, silver medalist lang ako. Pero ngayon bukod sa gold medalist na, na-break ko pa yung record,” Saud expressed.
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
Determined to come back stronger, Saud dedicated the offseason to refining his form and endurance under the guidance of head coach Ronald Corot, whom he credits for helping him regain confidence and composure on the track.
“Nagsipag lang talaga ako sa pag-training. Ako po kasi yung binabantayan nila kasi po ako ‘yung inaasahan nilang manalo,” he said.
Saud also drew strength from his family, who have supported him since he first joined Adamson’s athletics program.
“Pamilya ko po talaga ang inspirasyon ko, pati na rin si Coach Ronald (Corot) na laging nagsasabi sa akin na kaya ko at kaya kong i-break yung record,” he added.
Despite this milestone, the season isn’t over yet for the young Falcon.
Saud will also compete in the 3,000-meter race walk on Day 3, where he posted the UAAP’s all-time best of 14:16.94 in Season 87 on Nov. 19, 2024.
He will also participate in the 5,000-meter run and the 1,500-meter run on Day 4.
