EJ Obiena Achieves Podium Finish in Germany After Asian Indoor Triumph
Filipino pole vault sensation Ernest John "EJ" Obiena added another impressive achievement to his storied career by securing a bronze medal at the INIT Indoor Meeting Karlsruhe in Germany on Sunday, February 8, 2026. The two-time Olympian cleared a height of 5.70 meters to claim third place in a highly competitive field.
Strong Competition in Karlsruhe
Obiena faced formidable opponents at the German event, finishing behind Norway's Sondre Mogens Guttormsen, who soared to an impressive 5.84 meters, and American athlete Cole Walsh, who reached 5.78 meters. This podium finish demonstrates Obiena's consistent performance at the international level, even against some of the world's best pole vaulters.
Historic Asian Indoor Championship Victory
The bronze medal in Germany comes just one day after Obiena's historic triumph at the Asian Indoor Championships in China. With this victory, he completed what he described as an "Asian slam," having now won gold medals at:
- The Asian Games
- The Asian Championships
- The Asian Indoor Championships
This achievement marks the final missing Asian indoor title in his extensive collection, solidifying his status as one of Asia's premier athletes.
Overcoming Challenges and Personal Reflections
In a heartfelt Facebook post following his Asian Indoor victory, Obiena reflected on the significant challenges he overcame to reach this milestone. He revealed that this competition represented only his second time entering this particular arena in a decade, citing logistical setbacks with transporting his poles to the host city as one of the major obstacles.
Obiena shared his admiration for a famous quote from Theodore Roosevelt that emphasizes the courage of those who enter the arena rather than those who criticize from the sidelines:
"It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming..."
The athlete elaborated on this philosophy, stating: "I have always loved this famous quote from Teddy Roosevelt. It all starts with putting yourself out there. Not the critics (especially on social media!) who spout opinions without ever being in the arena."
Celebrating Filipino Athletic Excellence
Obiena expressed particular pride in what this achievement represents for Philippine athletics, noting: "Records are made to be broken. But victories and titles remain forever. I am proud to bring home this gold to my nation. In Pole Vault, we have won every single Asian Championship Gold Medal. Our greatness is on display for all to see."
He also extended recognition to fellow national athletes, stating: "Kudos to everyone who puts themselves out there — every single one of our national athletes who proudly dons the colors of the Philippines and strives to bring honor to our nation."
This dual accomplishment in China and Germany within a 24-hour period showcases Obiena's remarkable resilience and dedication to his sport, further cementing his legacy as one of the Philippines' most accomplished athletes on the international stage.
