EJ Obiena has claimed his eighth victory of 2026, adding another strong result to an impressive athletics season.
The Filipino pole vaulter continues to produce consistent performances on the international circuit. His latest victory also underlines his status as one of the leading athletes in the event.
Obiena has enjoyed a busy year so far. In addition, his results have kept him firmly among the names to watch in world pole vaulting.
A major change of plans
After training in Formia, Italy, the Filipino icon recently moved to Athens, Greece. There, he began training with current world number two Emmanouil Karalis.
His new Polish coach, Marcin Szepanski, now oversees his training.
However, the move followed a major career decision. Obiena ended his 12-year partnership with Ukrainian coach Vitaly Petrov, who helped develop him into a world-renowned vaulter.
“It’s really hard. That decision was not made just because. We still talk and I call Vitaly from time to time. I love the guy, I really do.”
“He built me. He made my career. He has done so much for me and that it really is a difficult decision,” Obiena told the Manila Times.
Obiena said he had no complaints about Vitaly. Instead, he described the coaching change as a difficult but necessary step. The decision aims to support his continued growth and push him beyond his comfort zone.
Looking forward to Asian Games
Obiena now hopes to carry his momentum into the 2026 Asian Games. The Filipino star is eager to maintain his rhythm after his latest victory.
In an interview with GMA News, he said he looks forward to competing against the continent’s best athletes. He also believes the new training environment is working well.
“I’m in a way looking forward to it. There’s nothing fun when success is guaranteed, and I think that’s the beauty of every competition,” he said.
“There’s always a probability that you will lose. It gives you that extra push, extra energy, extra concentration to give your all.”
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