By Maxine Agno

The Ateneo High School (AHS) Track and Field Team is prepared for a strong performance as they step into the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 88 Athletics Tournament, which will run from November 6 to 10 at the New Clark City Athletics Stadium.

While the title has been elusive in recent seasons, the Blue Eagles have been consistently top contenders, securing multiple podium finishes — a history that serves as constant motivation for the current AHS athletes to bring glory to Ateneo. 

The team returns to a familiar hunting ground this season, competing at the stadium in Capas, Tarlac, which hosted the event last season, providing a comfortable setting for the athletes to push their limits. 

Team Captain Alessandro Nieto shared his driving force for this season, saying, “To me, that means breaking the hammer throw record.”

He added, “I’ve trained really hard over the past few months, and I know I have it in me to accomplish this.” 

With preparations intensely focused on the crucial moments of the throw, Nieto explains, “Focusing on adding power or strength to my throws now is pointless because it can very easily lead to injuries … I focused heavily on my mental fortitude and composure during competition simulation.”

Competing away from home was a non-issue, thanks to the team’s unity and strong bond. As proof, Nieto wasted no time contributing to the team’s tally, securing an impressive silver medal in the Boys’ Hammer Throw (6kg) event. 

He recorded a distance of 40.55m, behind Tiger Cub Jayvee Ceballos’ 43.22m. His performance earned the Blue Eagles team 12 points on the first day.

This season, the competition is split into two sessions per day, and the tracksters will participate in all Track and Field categories except for the Heptathlon and High Jump. The morning sessions start at 6:00 a.m and the afternoon sessions start at 4:00 p.m.