Latest news with #EJObiena
GMA Network
12-07-2025
- Sport
- GMA Network
EJ Obiena finishes 7th in Diamond League Monaco
A podium finish remained elusive for EJ Obiena as the Filipino pole vaulter struggled at the Meeting International d'Athletisme Herculis of the Diamond League on Saturday in Monaco. Obiena finished seventh in the 11-man field after clearing 5.72 meters. The 29-year-old ace tried to vault his way at the next height of 5.82m, but committed faults on three jumps to bow out of contention. This marked Obiena's first competition since the Stockholm leg last June, where he also managed to finish in seventh place. World and Olympic record holder Mondo Duplantis rose to the top anew by clearing 6.05 meters while Greek pole vaulter and Paris Olympics bronze medalist Emmanouil Karalis struck the silver medal after clearing 5.92 meters. Kurtis Marschall completed the podium after also clearing 5.92m, but would settle for third spot due to countback. —JMB, GMA Integrated News
Filipino Times
07-07-2025
- Sport
- Filipino Times
EJ Obiena to bring international pole vault event to PH this September
Filipino pole vault star EJ Obiena revealed on Monday that the country will host a major international pole vaulting event this coming September 20–21, to be held at Ayala Triangle Gardens in Makati. Titled 'The Atletang Ayala World Pole Vault Challenge', the competition is officially sanctioned by the World Athletics Continental Tour (Bronze level), giving athletes the opportunity to earn global ranking points and a cash prize. Obiena, who will also compete in the event, said he's excited to perform in front of a home crowd and hopes the event will encourage more world-class sports competitions to be held in the Philippines. 'I've competed all over the world — but a home crowd hits differently,' he said in a virtual press briefing, admitting the pressure will be intense. While other participants and ticketing details have yet to be finalized, the competition will follow a street vaulting format, offering a unique urban setup for spectators. The event is set just five days after the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, where Obiena is also expected to compete. The pole vault challenge was initially scheduled for September last year, but was postponed due to Obiena's back injury and logistical challenges.
Associated Press
07-07-2025
- Sport
- Associated Press
The World's Most Prestigious Street Pole Vault Competition Comes to Asia!
MAKATI CITY, Philippines, July 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Half a century ago, the vibrant city of Manila captured global attention with 'Thrilla in Manila,' a historic boxing event. Now, the Philippines is once again opening its doors to a world-class sporting spectacle. On September 20 and 21, 2025, the iconic Ayala Triangle Gardens will host The Atletang Ayala World Pole Vault Challenge, a unique street vaulting competition designed to inspire and entertain. This event is a collaborative effort, brought to life through the vision of two-time World Championship Medalist EJ Obiena and Atletang Ayala, both committed to showcasing the potential of Filipino talent and the warmth of Filipino hospitality on a global stage. Ernest John 'EJ' Obiena, representing the Philippines, soars through the air during the Pole Vault Men's final at the World Athletics Championships 2023. This dynamic 'spread eagle' pose, showcasing his athletic prowess and the vibrant colors of the Philippine flag, captures the essence of his powerful and gravity-defying performance. This highly anticipated event will feature a thrilling street vaulting format, with top-ranked athletes from around the globe competing in the open air amidst the dynamic backdrop of Makati's business district. The Atletang Ayala World Pole Vault Challenge is officially sanctioned by the World Athletics Continental Tour-Bronze category, ensuring adherence to rigorous global standards. With cash prizes and opportunities for participants to experience the beauty of the Philippine islands, the event is drawing significant interest from elite vaulters. Organizers anticipate the participation of several of the world's top 10, promising an unparalleled display of athletic prowess in a unique setting. This event, to be held at the picturesque Ayala Triangle Gardens, offers a natural oasis surrounded by towering urban architecture, reminiscent of iconic urban green spaces worldwide. Beyond the competition, this event holds a deeper purpose for the Philippines. It's an opportunity to highlight the nation's growing role in hosting major international gatherings and to present the authentic spirit of its people. The Atletang Ayala World Pole Vault Challenge aims not only to inspire a new generation of athletes but also spotlight the Philippines as a welcoming and vibrant destination, with Makati City as a dynamic hub for significant global events. This partnership between Obiena and Atletang Ayala reflects a shared dedication to fostering national development through sports, underscoring the commitment to supporting Filipino talent and advocating for the nation's progress. Attendees are invited to be part of this memorable occasion and witness hometown hero Obiena compete on his home turf. 'I want the Philippines' legacy of excellence in Pole Vaulting to continue long after I am retired,' says Obiena. 'I have seen first-hand how sports can help build a nation, and I want to bring such an event to my homeland to provide inspiration and opportunity for our talented youth.' Are you ready to witness world-class athleticism unfold in a truly unique setting, as elite pole vaulters reach for new heights in the heart of Southeast Asia? A photo accompanying this announcement is available at Media Contact Katapult Digital Email: [email protected] CONTACT Rachelle Marie D. Jimena COMPANY Ayala Corporation PHONE (02) 8403-3433 EMAIL [email protected] WEB
GMA Network
07-07-2025
- Sport
- GMA Network
EJ Obiena-led elite pole vault meet finally happening on September 21 in Makati
EJ Obiena is finally staging an elite pole vault event at home as he hosts the Atletang Ayala World Pole Vault Challenge on September 21 at the Ayala Triangle Gardens in Makati. The competition is expected to see top pole vaulters across the globe — including Obiena himself — duke it out for ranking points as it will be an official event in the World Athletics calendar. "We're inviting, of course, the top pole vaulters. The dates are strategically placed on the 21st, that's gonna be after the world championship so we could expect high-ranking athletes," Obiena said in an online press conference with Philippine media. "We're gonna announce it as soon as the competition dates come. As of now, we'll keep it first." Last year, world no. 4 Obiena was also supposed to host an event in the same venue but opted to pull the plug after deciding to focus on his recovery for a back injury he sustained. But he ensured that his dream of bringing an elite pole vault event to the country will finally become a reality this year. And although nothing has been cast in stone yet, Obiena's camp revealed that world no. 1 Mondo Duplantis and other top pole vaulters in the world are interested in flying to Manila to participate in the event. "I've always wanted to bring this since the day I've competed in Europe, when I've seen how the event kind of relates to the people in the city, the people in the crowd," Obiena added. "I've been talking to a lot of stakeholders and I'm very blessed that it's finally happening. It's a long time coming." —JMB, GMA Integrated News
GMA Network
13-06-2025
- Sport
- GMA Network
EJ Obiena fails attempts in Oslo leg of Diamond League; Duplantis sets meet record
EJ Obiena got a 'no mark' in the Oslo leg of the Diamond League on Friday (Philippine time) after failing his attempts in the men's pole vault event. The Filipino Olympian and pole vaulter skipped the first bar at 5.40 meters before failing all three attempts at the 5.62 meters. "This is sport sometimes," Obiena said in an Instagram story after his failed attempts. The loss came just days after he won his fourth straight gold in the Asian Athletics Championships. Meanwhile, world no. 1 Mondo Duplantis surpassed the previous meet record of 6.02 meters as he dominated the event with a new record of 6.15 meters. —JKC, GMA Integrated News
