Filipino pole vault star EJ Obiena continued his dominating career in Asia, capturing his second gold medal of the season at the 12th Asian Indoor Athletics Championships on Saturday, February 7.
The two-time Olympian soared over 5.70 meters to take first place, edging out Chinese competitors Li Chenyang (5.60m) and Chen Yang (5.40m).
Obiena’s victory adds to an already impressive start to 2026, following his shared triumph with the Netherlands’ Menno Vloon at the International Springer-Meeting in Germany last January 29.
The 30-year-old now stands as the only Asian vaulter to have collected every major continental title, including the Asian Games in 2023 and a three-time reign at the Asian Athletics Championships (2019, 2023, 2025).
Reflecting on his achievement, Obiena posted on social media:
“This gold is special for many reasons. It’s my first real chance in this arena after a decade, and it completes my collection of Asian Championship titles. Records are made to be broken, but victories remain forever. Proud to bring this home to my nation.”
Obiena now turns his sights toward the World Championships, hoping to make up for last year’s missed opportunity.
His latest gold not only cements his dominance in Asia but also signals a strong campaign on the global stage.
