He’s unstoppable right now.
Filipino pole vaulter EJ Obiena must be having the time of his life as he won a second straight gold medal in Germany by conquering the NetAachen Domspringen in Katschhof, Aachen on Wednesday (Manila time). Soaring past 5.92m, the Tondo, Manila native bested USA’s Sam Kendricks and Thibaut Collet of France who finished second and third, respectively. The American cleared 5.87m while the Frenchman survived 5.82m.
On Instagram, Obiena shared the festive mood during the competition, which he repaid with a golden performance. Yes, 5.92 seems to be a lucky number for EJ. In ISTAF Berlin, several days ago, he cleared the exact same height to claim the crown.
Here’s EJ, having a good time on stage with the event organizers.
Believe it or not, Parokya ni Edgar’s hit song Bagsakan was the background song playing at the venue as Obiena did his thing.
X (formerly Twitter) user The Professional Heckler also captured the moment. The text on the post was asking if it was SB19’s Gento that was banging out of the speakers. We're sure it was PNE.
“ICYMI: EARLIER TODAY, EJ Obiena ruled the 2003 NetAachen Domspringen competition in Katschhof, Aachen, Germany,” he tweeted.
Of course, the fans had to congratulate the Filipino athletics superstar.
Netizen @JRed1994 practically said, it’s only world no. 1 Armand “Mondo” Duplantis who’s standing in EJ’s way.
“Best Vaulter in the World who is not named Armand Duplantis,” he posted.
One fan lobbied for more support in Obiena’s behalf.
‘”Eto talaga dapat yung binibigyan ng pansin ng at funding eh,” @levy_wong claimed.
Another X user in @gerald_santos_ made sure to express his appreciation for Obiena’s efforts.
“Congrats once more. Thank you for this very much needed good news,”
What else is there to say? Here’s one: Paris 2024, better watch out for Ernest John Obiena!
(GM)