Layout by: Kathrina Embile
Published by: Aprilyn Sado
Date Published: February 5 2025
Time Published: 8:04 AM
Filipino pole vault sensation Ernest John "EJ" Obiena made a resilient return after a 2024 season cut short by spine injury, snagging a silver medal at the International Jump Meeting in Cottbus, Germany on Wednesday, January 29.
Obiena cleared 5.65 meters to secure second place with impressive form despite the recent turn of events due to his injury, while Sam Kendricks from the United States claim the first place with a 5.75 meter clearance.
The Filipino pole vaulter managed to clear 5.40 meters, 5.55 meters, and 5.65 meters with only one try apiece, but unable to clear 5.75 meters after three valiant tries.
Obiena stated after the competition, "It was a long road to recovery, but I'm feeling good and I'm ready to get back to competing."
“I'm happy to be back,” he added.
Obiena’s strong performance in Cottbus highlights his dedication after recovering from spine injury way back in August 2024, causing him to miss the rest of the season and including the event of the Philippine International Pole Vault Challenge in Makati, which he was to host in September.
Despite facing the challenges, Obiena’s desire to rise to the top is proven in his current fourth-place world ranking behind world record holder Armand Duplantis of Sweden, Sam Kendricks of USA, and Emmanouil Karalis of Greece.
Driven by ambition, Obiena remains to achieve even greater heights, aiming to clear 6.10 meters and 6.15 meters in future competitions.
REFERENCES:
[1] Terrado, R. (2025, January 30). Obiena cops second place in first competition since spine injury. https://www.spin.ph/athletics/obiena-cops-second-place-in-first-competition-since-spine-injury-a795-20250130
[2] Dioquino, D. (2025, January 30). EJ Obiena back in action, snags silver in Germany to start 2025. https://www.rappler.com/sports/pole-vault-results-ej-obiena-international-springer-meeting-cottbus-germany-january-29-2025/
[3] Villar, J. (2025, January 31). EJ nails silver in Germany. https://www.philstar.com/sports/2025/01/31/2418111/ej-nails-silver-germany/amp/
IMAGE SOURCES:
[1] can, O. (2023). EJ Obiena can
quench athletics’ 88-year thirst for Olympics medal. Www.google.com. https://images.app.goo.gl/9B8JCBAmArEKiPd98
[2] on, O. (2024). EJ Obiena on X: "Hi everyone . I have been trying to read ... Www.google.com. https://images.app.goo.gl/NNPJvQCk1h3vWG6dA
No comments:
Post a Comment