THOMASIAN POLE vaulter and two-time Olympian EJ Obiena is set to host and star in the country’s first internationally sanctioned pole vault tilt from Sept. 20 and 21 at Ayala Triangle Gardens in Makati.
Titled the “Atletang Ayala World Pole Vault Challenge,” the contest will feature the world’s top pole vaulters, including the anticipated appearance of record-breaking star Mondo Duplantis.
“This has been a dream of mine, to bring world-class pole vaulting to the Philippines,” Obiena said during a virtual press conference on Monday, July 7.
“I hope this could inspire future generations of athletes and we also want to showcase the country’s abilities to host such a huge international-level competition,” he said.
The event was originally set for last year but was postponed due to Obiena’s spine injury. Now fully recovered, the Filipino athlete expressed excitement to compete again at home for the first time since topping the 2019 Southeast Asian Games in New Clark City, Tarlac.
“Of course, I’ll be there. I wouldn’t miss this for the world… This event is almost like a baby of mine, this is something I’ve been really pushing,” the Olympian said.
“I can’t wait to jump in front of a home crowd. I’ve not done that in such a long time, like the screams and the warm reception and of course the pressure to perform definitely is at the all-time high,” he added.
The upcoming pole vault competition in Makati will serve as the final stop on the 2025 calendar and will follow a street vaulting format. F – Kurt Andre Trinidad
