By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña
EJ Obiena wants to collect all possible awards in every available tournament out there after taking another medal for the Philippines.
Three days after a thrilling and competitive 2020 Monaco Diamond League where he finished third, the Tokyo-bound pole vaulter joined his first virtual tournament and immediately found his groove despite being a first-timer in online competitions.
During the “Who’s the Finest Pole Vaulter” exhibition tournament, Obiena did not waste all of his tries after completing his routine in only his second attempt, garnering a height of 5.60 meters.
According to Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association (PATAFA) president Philip Juico, Obiena defied the external challenges brought by extremely strong winds during his routine.
Obiena is currently in Formia, Italy where he and his entire team is practicing heading into the 2021 Tokyo Olympics.
“EJ is really intent on participating in as many competitions as he can, to further refine his technique. He had just arrived from Diamond League in Monaco Saturday afternoon, August 15. In less than 48 hours, he jumped right back into another star-studded tournament. EJ continues to make us and the country proud,” said Juico.
