EJ Obiena is heading back to Tokyo for the World Athletics Championships, renewing his quest for global pole vaulting glory.
The Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association (PATAFA) confirmed that Obiena met the qualifying standard last year, officially securing his entry. This season, he also announced his participation in the World Athletics Continental Tour event in Beijing on September 7, as well as his Atletang Ayala World Pole Vault Challenge in Makati. The Tokyo qualifier is set for September 13, with the finals following on September 15 at the Japan National Stadium which is the same site as the Tokyo Olympic Games.
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EJ Obiena’s Recent Form
Obiena has arrived at this championship on a roll. He successfully defended his Asian pole vault title at the 2025 Asian Athletics Championships in Gumi, clearing 5.77 meters through a jump-off against China’s Huang Bokai, his third consecutive title in the event.
On the global stage, Obiena currently holds the fifth spot in the men's pole vault world rankings as of mid-2025, solidifying his place among the elite.
In Diamond+ competition at the 2025 Herculis meet, Obiena cleared 5.72 meters, placing seventh, evidence of his competitive consistency among the world's best.
Tokyo Return: Realistic Medal Hope
Returning to the Tokyo stadium where he once competed in the Olympics, Obiena remains a strong medal contender. His consistent performances, clinching three straight Asian titles and ranking among the fastest in world standings, highlight his competitiveness.
Facing stiff competition from vaulting legends like Armand Duplantis, the Olympic and World record holder, Obiena may not be the top favorite for gold, but he’s undeniably within striking distance of the podium.
