MANILA – Ateneo de Manila University displayed its brilliance in the UAAP Season 87 swimming tournament, winning a ninth straight title in the men’s division and reclaiming the women’s crown after five years at the world-class New Clark City Aquatics Center in Capas, Tarlac.
In the men’s division, Ateneo tallied 493 points on 19 gold, six silver and five bronze medals.
De La Salle University placed second with 321 points (1 gold, 13 silvers and four bronzes) followed by the University of the Philippines with 226 points (1-0-7) and the University of Santo Tomas with 170 points (1-3-6).
The Blue Eagles grabbed five gold medals in the final day of competition Wednesday courtesy of Rookie of the Year and MVP Miguel Barreto (1500-meter freestyle), Ivo Enot (50m backstroke and 50m freestyle), Juan Marco Daos (200m butterfly) and the men’s 4x100m medley relay team of Enot, Charles Ticbaen, Rafael Barreto, and Rian Marco Tirol.
In the women’s division, Ateneo garnered 349 points on seven golds, eight silvers and six bronzes.
UP, last season’s champion, ranked second with 337 points (7-4-5) followed by La Salle with 250 points (4-4-4) and UST with 209 points (3-5-6).
Mishka Sy bagged the MVP honors for winning two golds, four silvers and a bronze.
La Salle’s Mikaela Talosig got the Rookie of the Year award for capturing three gold and two bronze medals.
Swimming program director Archie Lim credited the Blue Eagles’ success to perseverance and championship tradition.
Overall, Ateneo has won 10 men’s titles and seven women’s titles.
“The biggest challenge is keeping them motivated and [having] the desire to actually perform. We reminded them that breaking records and winning golds bring honor to the school and the team,” said Lim. (PNA/ Jean Malanum)