MANILA, Philippines: Filipino Olympian pole vaulter Ernest “EJ” Obiena clinched his first gold medal for 2024 on Tuesday at the Memorial Josep Gašparac tournament in Croatia.
Obiena cleared the height of 5.83 meters, defeating Portugal’s Pedro Buaró (5.73m) and the United States’ Oren Trey Oates (5.61m).
This is Obiena’s first title in 2024, as he prepares for the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris, France.
“Indoor season finally kicks off,” wrote Obiena on his social media platforms. “5.83 for the title here… Thank you for having us and putting on a great atmosphere.”
Obiena will next head to Germany for the Istaf Indoor event.