EJ Obiena defends home turf, reigns supreme in Ayala event

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

There’s no better way to win a gold medal in front of your kababayans.

Despite the gloomy weather, EJ Obiena received warm and overwhelming support from Filipino fans after emerging victorious during the Atletang Ayala World Pole Vault Challenge on Sept. 21, 2025, at the Ayala Triangle in Makati City.

Obiena equalized his season high to rule the event, leaping over 5.80 meters to nip Thibaut Collet of France and stand in the middle of the podium.

The Filipino pole vaulting sensation edged the French superstar via countback, needing only two attempts to complete the 5.80-m hurdle; on the other hand, Collet consumed all three of his tries and settled for the silver medal.

Obiena’s triumph propelled him back to a familiar place after failing to deliver a gold medal during a series of international tournaments in the past four months.

After a bronze medal outing during the World Athletics Continental Tour in Beijing, China, Obiena set his sights on the World Pole Vault Challenge, an event he partnered on with Ayala Corporation.

Obiena didn’t disappoint, showing off his skills that caused pandemonium at the Ayala Triangle when Collet missed out on the winning mark on his second attempt.

“Ayala is proud to partner with EJ for an event that celebrates Filipino excellence and marks the successes of our sporting heroes,” said Ayala Corporation Executive Director Jaime Alfonso Zobel de Ayala.

Completing the trio of podium finishers during the historic event was Poland’s Piotr Lisek, who managed to cap off his campaign with 5.60 meters.

“Through this pole vault challenge, we hope to bring Filipinos together in encouraging sporting participation, inspiring future athletes, and making us proud as a nation,” added de Ayala.