By: Nicole Parallag
CAPAS, Tarlac — University of the East made history by clinching its first-ever UAAP Girls’ Athletics championship, dethroning back-to-back titleholders UST in a gripping showdown at the Season 87 meet held at the New Clark City Athletics Stadium here.
The Junior Lady Warriors amassed 441.5 points to edge out the UST Junior Female Tracksters (425.5 points), reclaiming their dominance from their earlier reign in Seasons 78 to 81 when the girls’ division was a demonstration event.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
Leading the charge was MVP Jeralyn Rodriguez, who dazzled with five golds and two silvers.
“Masaya po ako kasi una (at huli) ko na itong laro sa UAAP, at napasaya ko po ang mga coaches. Sa wakas, nabalik na po ang korona sa Recto,” said Rodriguez, who also holds four UAAP records.
UST fought to the very end, securing two gold medals on the final day.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
Jamaica Kate Saligan delivered a standout performance in the 100-meter hurdles, clocking 15.25 seconds to edge out teammate Ma. Lhynnette Libranda (15.47).
National University Nazareth School’s Jean Albaciete claimed bronze in 16.14 seconds.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
The Junior Female Tracksters also took gold in the 4×400-meter relay, as Ashley Tabad, Saligan, Franceine Rosario, and Lea Ordinario finished with a time of 3:54.01.
UE settled for silver at 3:56.07, while Adamson University earned bronze with 4:25.91.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
Adamson finished third overall with 293 points, highlighted by standout performances from Rhea Antonette Lego and Rookie of the Year Erika Dorado.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
Lego set a new meet record in the Girls’ Long Jump at 5.27 meters, while Dorado dominated the 2000-meter steeplechase with a time of 7:46.34.
For UE, the victory was a long-awaited return to the top.
The crown, as Rodriguez proudly proclaimed, is back in Recto.
