The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business
By Robert Andaya
Filipino pole vault champion EJ Obiena continued his impressive showing by securing a bronze medal at the Oslo Diamond League-Bislett Games in Norway last Friday.
Despite falling short of his Asian record and personal-best of 6.0 meters, Obiena’s performance was enough to land him on the podium against a strong field of athletes that included his Olympic rivals.
Obiena cleared a height of 5.81m to secure third place behind only Armand Duplantis, the world No. 1 and record holder from Sweden, who achieved a remarkable jump of 6.01m and Christopher Nielsen of the United States, who claimed the silver medal with a clearance of 5.91m.
Obiena, ever so eager to challenge for the top positions, attempted to clear the 5.91m mark and even set his sights on 6.01m.
But the Filipino hero was unable to surpass these heights.
Nevertheless, his bronze medal finish in a prestigious event like the Oslo Diamond League-Bislett Games is a significant achievement according to experts.
The bronze-medal performance in Norway was also a fitting addition to Obiena’s recent accomplishments during the 2023 outdoor season.
Obiena has shown remarkable consistency, finishing on the podium in all three competitions he has participated in Europe.
Prior to the Oslo event, Obiena slso bagged a bronze medal at the 5th Irena Szewinska Memorial tournament in Poland, where he achieved a leap of 5.72m.
The Filipino then made headlines by breaking his own national and Asian outdoor records during the Sparebanken Vest Bergen Jump Challenge, clearing a height of 6.00m and becoming the 28th pole vaulter globally to achieve this feat.
His outstanding results throughout the season serve as a testament to his dedication and talent.
These victories also serve as a significant confidence boost for Obiena as he sets his sights on the 2024 Olympics next year. With the qualification period commencing on July 1, Obiena aims to earn his ticket to Paris.
The entry standard to secure a spot in the Paris Olympics is set at 5.82m, and based on his consistent performances and ability to compete against the world’s best, Obiena is well on his way to achieve his Olympic aspirations.