Cabradilla launches JRU’s NCAA four-peat bid with gold in long jump

MANILA, Philippines – Jose Rizal's launched its ambitious four-peat bid with a bang as Domingo Cabradilla gave it its first gold in the start of the 89th NCAA track and field competitions at the La Salle-Dasmarinas oval in Cavite on Thursday.

Cabradilla struck in long jump where he leapt to 6.89 meters twice, once in the preliminaries and another in his final jump, enough to snare the gold for the Bombers, who have emerged the athletics champions the last three seasons.

But Cabradilla needed to edge Perpetual Help's Patrick Faderogao, who also jumped to 6.89 meters but settled for the silver after the former beat the latter when officials used the wind velocity to break the tie.

Mark Harry Diones, Cabradilla's teammate, settled for the bronze with 6.86-m.

Another Jose Rizal bet, John Albert Mantua was fighting at press time to bring home the discus throw gold he won last year.

Mantua was adjudged as MVP last year being the record holder of his favorite event with a throw of 40.61 meters.

"It's a nice way to start our campaign," said Jose Rizal Management Committee representative Paul Supan, who chairs the committee organzing the track and field competition.

San Sebastian likewise made its presence felt after Rolando Oberas copped the pole vault mint in 3.70 m, besting teammate Raian Espada and Letran's Jeffrey Fajiculay, who both took the silver after an identical 3.50 m.

Letran's Rouelo Cordova brought home the bronze after registering 3.40 meters.