GARNERING A TOTAL of five medals, the San Beda University (SBU) Red Tracksters settled for fifth place overall in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Season 99 Athletic Championships at the PhilSports Complex in Pasig last June 6 to 8.
Within the three-day event, the Red Tracksters tallied a total of one gold, one silver, and three bronze medals across individual events such as the 800 meters, 1500 meters, 3000-meter steeplechase, and Javelin Throw event. They also found success in the group category, specifically in the 4×400 meter relay.
These podiums left the Tracksters’ Coach, Giovanni Andaya, satisfied despite his initial doubts before the NCAA.
In an interview with The Bedan, he stated, “Sa totoo lang, nag-aalangan ako na baka hindi kami mag-perform, pero because of our work ethic, nagtiwala ako na ‘yung program ko is ma-achieve ng mga players ko and then mahihit namin ‘yung mga goal namin.”
College standout David Matibag, who seized the 800-meter gold medal, the 1500-meter silver medal and played a part in the team’s 4×400 meter bronze with Joemar Castillo, Eagle Bicera, and Jimmy Bas, credited their success to their preparations before the competition.
“Maganda po ‘yung condition ng aming katawan ngayon dahil mas maganda ‘yung preparation po namin. Mas pinataas pa namin kumpara doon sa last year na NCAA,” he emphasized.
After the end of the event, he looks forward to a week-long break before returning to training for the Asian University Games in Indonesia, which will take place from July 1-6. Surprised by his performance that earned him the bronze in the 3000-meter event, Bas recognized Coach Andaya and their shared goal of winning.
“I would like to use this opportunity to mention my coach Giovanni Andaya for supporting me in this journey of us. Ito ‘yung unang pangarap namin ni coach, to achieve my medal in [the] NCAA. So ‘yun nga, ‘yung unang pangarap namin is natupad namin.”
Now, he looks forward to beating his own personal record to qualify and participate in international competitions.
Patrick Catapang, who clinched bronze in the Javelin throw, is also looking to improve for the upcoming NCAA Season 100, wishing for SBU’s success in the league’s centennial edition.