Explain EJ Obiena in 500 words
Ernest John "EJ" Obiena is a Filipino pole vaulter who has made significant strides in his career, becoming one of the country's most promising athletes. Born on November 17, 1995, in Manila, Philippines, Obiena comes from a family of athletes, with his father, Emerson Obiena, being a former national decathlete.
Obiena's journey in pole vaulting began at a young age, as he was introduced to the sport by his father. He quickly showed great potential and a natural talent for the event, displaying his dedication and determination to excel in the sport. As a result, he started training intensively under the guidance of his father, who became his coach.
In 2012, Obiena had his breakthrough moment when he won the gold medal in the pole vault event at the Asian Junior Athletics Championships. This victory marked the beginning of his international success and propelled him to compete in various prestigious competitions around the world.
Obiena continued to make strides in his career, setting national records and achieving remarkable performances. In 2016, he broke the Philippine record in pole vault with a height of 61 meters, surpassing the previous record set by his father. This accomplishment solidified his position as one of the top pole vaulters in the country.
However, Obiena faced a setback in 2017 when he suffered a knee injury that required surgery. This forced him to take a break from the sport and undergo a lengthy rehabilitation process. Despite the challenges, Obiena remained resilient and focused on his recovery, determined to come back stronger than ever.
In 2019, Obiena made a triumphant return to the sport, showcasing his incredible talent and determination. He set a new Philippine record of 81 meters at the Asian Athletics Championships, securing his qualification for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. This achievement marked a significant milestone for Obiena, as he became the first Filipino male athlete to qualify for the Olympics in athletics through standard qualification.
Obiena's success continued in 2020, despite the global pandemic disrupting the sports world. He won the gold medal at the 2020 Asian Indoor Athletics Championships, setting a new championship record of 45 meters. This victory further solidified his position as one of Asia's top pole vaulters.
In addition to his athletic achievements, Obiena is also a scholar-athlete, having pursued a degree in Business Administration at the University of Santo Tomas in Manila. This demonstrates his commitment to both his education and his athletic career, highlighting his discipline and determination to excel in all aspects of life.
EJ Obiena's journey in pole vaulting is a testament to his unwavering dedication, resilience, and passion for the sport. He has become an inspiration to many aspiring athletes in the Philippines and has brought pride to his country through his remarkable achievements. As he continues to compete on the international stage, it is evident that Obiena's future is filled with immense potential and the possibility of even greater accomplishments.