Photo from EJ Obiena’s Instagram account
Published on: February 8, 2026, 8:03 am
EJ Obiena Opens 2026 Season with Gold Medal Triumph in China
Filipino pole vault sensation EJ Obiena has started his 2026 athletic campaign on a spectacular note, securing the gold medal in the men’s pole vault finals at the 12th Asian Indoor Athletics Championships. The prestigious event was held at the Tuanbo Sports Center in Tianjin, China, on Saturday, February 7, 2026.
Dominant Performance on the Asian Stage
The two-time Filipino Olympian showcased his exceptional skill and consistency by clearing a height of 5.70 meters in a single attempt. This flawless performance was enough to clinch the top spot on the podium, underscoring Obiena’s status as one of Asia’s premier athletes in the sport.
In a closely contested battle, China’s Li Chenyang made three attempts to match Obiena’s height but ultimately fell short, settling for the silver medal with a clearance of 5.60 meters. Another Chinese competitor, Chen Yang, earned the bronze medal by successfully vaulting over 5.40 meters on his first attempt.
Building Momentum for the Year Ahead
This victory represents Obiena’s second gold medal of the year, following an impressive showing at the International Springer-Meeting in Germany on January 29. The win in Tianjin not only adds to his growing collection of accolades but also sets a positive tone for his upcoming competitions.
Obiena is now poised to continue his European indoor campaign, with his next event scheduled at the INIT Indoor Meeting Karlsruhe in Germany. His consistent performances highlight his dedication and preparation as he aims for further success on the international stage.
A Record-Holding Legacy
EJ Obiena continues to hold the Asian indoor record in pole vaulting, with a remarkable clearance of 5.93 meters. He achieved this feat at the ISTAF Indoor meet in February 2024, solidifying his reputation as a trailblazer in Asian athletics.
As Obiena progresses through the 2026 season, fans and sports enthusiasts eagerly anticipate more record-breaking performances from this Filipino champion.
