EJ Obiena and Atletang Ayala Just Opened the Door to International Athletics in the Philippines

Under a gray sky at the Ayala Triangle Gardens yesterday, EJ Obiena soared above the competition, capturing gold in the very first Atletang Ayala World Pole Vault Challenge paired with roaring support from home fans. With a jump of 5.80 meters, cleared in two attempts, he edged out France’s Thibaut Collet via countback to win what may be one of the most meaningful victories of his 2025 season.

Claiming the Heights

Obiena skipped the opening height of 5.30 m, then cleanly cleared 5.45 m and 5.60 m. He passed on 5.70 m, and at 5.80 m he needed two tries—the countback rule would prove decisive. Collet also cleared 5.80 m but took three attempts. When both athletes failed at 5.90 m, Obiena was awarded the gold. Poland’s Piotr Lisek rounded out the podium with 5.60 m.

Also taking part were several world-ranked vaulters: Ersu Sasma (Turkey), Menno Vloon (Netherlands), Oleg Zernikel (Germany), among others, and local standout Hokett Delos Santos, who joined as a wildcard entry.

The Comeback Moment

Coming off a disappointing showing at the recent World Athletics Championships, where he failed to make the final, Obiena’s win in Makati was more than just another gold — it was a statement.

In the post-event press conference, Obiena expressed gratitude and relief. “I’m so happy for a bit of a comeback win and a really good way to end the season,” he said.

He also remarked on the crowd: “I’m really surprised with how big the crowd is.”

“I am so happy right now that I won. The rain gave us the time to actually compete on our best,” Obiena told the crowd at Ayala Triangle. “Everybody showed up, and the crowd stayed. Our team is great… You guys have made this dream come true… Hopefully, we can do this next year again.”

A Victory for More Than One

Beyond individual triumph, yesterday’s event showed how far Filipino pole vaulting has come. Hosting a World Athletics-sanctioned meet on home soil with top international talent, Obiena helped stage a world-class competition that many hope will become an annual highlight.

France’s Thibaut Collet commended Obiena and the organizers. “Crowd was amazing,” he said. “EJ was stronger today.”

Atletang Ayala and the Start of International Athletics in the Philippines

EJ Obiena’s victory not only gives him renewed confidence and momentum as he looks ahead to next season, but it also signals the potential of the Atletang Ayala World Pole Vault Challenge to open doors for more international meets in the Philippines. Such events provide better exposure, stronger competition, and greater opportunities for local athletes. For fans, the success of the competition proved that world-class athletics is no longer confined to overseas arenas because Obiena and Atletang Ayala proved it can thrive here at home, fueled by passion, preparation, and home-grown support.