EJ Obiena says PH pole vault tourney postponed, holds meet and greet instead

MANILA, Philippines – EJ Obiena on Monday, September 2, announced that the Philippine International Pole Vault Challenge that his camp has been organizing will not push through as originally planned.

Obiena said the meet, initially set to be held on September 20 at the Ayala Triangle Gardens in Makati, will be postponed until next year after the world No. 3 drew a premature close to his 2024 season due to a spine injury.

“I am truly sorry for this. I and the organizing team worked tirelessly to make this happen. Unfortunately, we encountered a few unexpected hurdles, including my fractured vertebrae,” Obiena wrote on his social media accounts.

The event would have been the first time Obiena competed locally since he ruled the 2019 Southeast Asian Games in New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac.

But with Obiena scratched out of the competition owing to his injury, he said the organizing team believed that it will not be able to “adequately deliver the competition to its full potential.”

“I respect their view and expertise as we all want a world-class event. Thus, we are forced to postpone and plan again,” said Obiena.

Looking to make the most of his return to the Philippines, Obiena will instead stage a meet and greet at the Ayala Malls Manila Bay on September 15.

The event, according to Obiena, will include an exhibition showcasing his sport, a panel discussion to be attended by “world-class athletes,” and other activities.

“I’m really looking forward to seeing everyone soon,” said Obiena. – Rappler.com