University of Santo Tomas (UST) made history by breaking University of the East’s (UE) stronghold on University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) fencing with its first-ever women’s championship at the conclusion of Season 87 late Friday at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.
The Female Fencers claimed their maiden title, thwarting the Red Warriors’ pursuit of a fourth consecutive event sweep.
UST sealed their victory in dramatic fashion with a thrilling 45-40 win over the dethroned champions, UE, in the sabre team final. This event turned out to be the title decider. UE had set the stage for a dramatic conclusion after winning the epee team final earlier that morning against UST, 45-41, leaving both teams tied with two golds heading into the sabre event.
UST finished the season with a medal tally of three golds, three silvers, and a bronze, while UE earned two golds, two silvers, and two bronzes.
University of the Philippines, meanwhile, secured the third place with a medal haul of one gold, one silver, and four bronzes, including two bronze medals in epee and sabre.
Despite the loss, UE continues to set the standard in UAAP fencing, with the league’s longest championship streak at 13 titles in the boys’ title, and driven by consecutive victories from both the men’s and girls’ teams.