EJ Obiena raring to show off in front of home crowd in Makati pole vault meet

There is no place like home for EJ Obiena even as he pursues pole vaulting greatness across the globe, looking forward to the upcoming Atletang Ayala World Pole Vault Challenge slated in September at the Ayala Triangle in Makati.

 

Obiena, who was among those who organized the event, is raring to give off a great performance in front of a Filipino crowd.

 

Having missed “home court advantage” since the 2019 Southeast Asian Games in Manila, Obiena has the unique chance of competing at a top-level competition sanctioned by World Athletics in front of an adoring Filipino crowd.

 

[READ: EJ Obiena to invite Mondo Duplantis, others as Philippines hosts world-class pole vault competition]

 

“On the personal side, as an athlete, I can’t wait to jump in front of a home crowd. I’ve not done that in such a long time. The last time I’ve done that was in SEA Games and it was far from the heart of the city and I think bringing the sport outside of the track, and closer to the people, and definitely Makati being as busy as it is, it is an amazing spot to jump,” Obiena said during the announcement press conference on Monday.

 

The 29-year-old admitted that competing at home court does have its disadvantages as well, with pressure mounting on his shoulders.

 

But as a competitive athlete, Obiena said that he enjoys the added challenge of performing in front of the Filipinos — especially if it means he gets to hear the triumphant shouts of Filipinos cheering him on if he does well.

 

[RELATED: EJ Obiena optimistic of Philippines hosting first-of-its-kind pole vault meet in Makati]

 

“I think that kind of brings pressure on me which I do, [more] oftentimes than not, enjoy. It’s gonna be something that I really am looking forward to because as I said, competing in a home crowd is just different,” said the two-time Olympian. 

 

“I’ve competed all over the world and I mean, the home crowd is just different. Like the screams, and the warm reception and of course, the pressure to perform definitely is at an all time high. And for that, as an athlete, I am excited to see this and I am excited to be there and as I’ve previously said, I wouldn’t miss this for the world,” he added.

 

Obiena is expecting the likes of world record holder Mondo Duplantis, and other top pole vaulters to head over to the Philippines to compete in the event which will be held right after the World Athletics World Championships.