EJ Obiena ends 2026 season with Asian Games gold and record

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
September 30, 2026

Photo Courtesy: AFP

EJ Obiena capped his 2026 season with another Asian Games gold medal, successfully defending his men’s pole vault title while setting a new Games record in Nagoya, Japan.

The Filipino pole vaulter cleared 5.75 meters to secure the gold, then raised the bar to 5.91 meters and cleared it on his final attempt, breaking his own previous Asian Games record of 5.90 meters set in Hangzhou in 2023.

Obiena said he was “very satisfied” with how he ended the season after competing since January. The Asian Games victory marked his 10th win of the year, giving him a strong finish after a season that included several challenging stretches.

The 30-year-old athlete also said he has rediscovered his enjoyment of pole vaulting, describing a renewed willingness to train, compete and take risks.

His victory came under difficult conditions, with rain affecting the competition and making the runway slippery. Obiena also dealt with injuries after a fall before the event, but still managed to produce the record-setting performance.

With the Asian Games gold secured, Obiena said his immediate plans are to rest and take a vacation after a long competitive season. His latest title also adds to a collection that includes two Asian Games gold medals and two World Championships medals.

For Obiena, the season ends with another Asian Games title, another record and a renewed sense of enjoyment in the sport as he looks ahead to what comes next.