EJ Obiena wins third straight Asian Athletics Championship crown

June 2 ------ EJ OBIENA retained his continental crown when he ruled the 2025 Asian Athletics Championships men’s pole vault competition in Gumi, Korea. Obiena won in a jump-off over Huang Bokai of China when he successfully cleared 5.77 meters to win his third consecutive Asian Athletics Championship crown. Both Obiena and Huang cleared 5.72, but missed 5.82, setting up the jump-off.

The Filipino pole vaulter had two jumps to hit the 5.72 mark, while the Chinese competitor put on the pressure by registering 5.32, 5.52, 5.62, and 5.67. Nevertheless, the 29-year-old Obiena showed why he is the world No. 3 pole vaulter, reasserting his label as the best in Asia. He captured the 2019 edition of the Asian Athletics Championship in Doha, and again in 2023 in Bangkok.

Obiena is also the reigning gold medalist in the Asian Games held in Hangzhou, China two years ago. Patsapong Amsamarng of Thailand took the bronze with a clearance of 5.67 meters.

Source: spin.ph