Ernest John Obiena defended his Asian Games pole vault title in Nagoya. He cleared 5.91m to win gold and improve his own Games record by one centimetre.
Obiena Sets a New Asian Games Record
Obiena entered the competition as the defending champion. He had won gold in Hangzhou in 2023 with a record clearance of 5.90m.
In Nagoya, he cleared 5.91m to secure another title. China’s Yao Jie and Li Chenyang both cleared 5.70m to share the remaining podium positions.
The result gave Obiena his second consecutive Asian Games gold medal. It also established a new Games record in men’s pole vault.
A Leading Figure in International Pole Vault
The Filipino athlete holds the Asian record in pole vault. He has also become one of the world’s leading competitors in the event.
Obiena has won two World Championships medals. He claimed bronze at the 2022 World Championships in Eugene. A year later, he earned silver at the 2023 championships in Budapest.
He also competed at the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympic Games. On both occasions, he reached the Olympic final.
Obiena’s Journey to the Six-Metre Mark
Obiena’s rise has included several national and continental records. His 5.91m clearance in Nagoya was not his personal best.
His Philippine national record stands at 6.00m, achieved in 2023. He became the first Filipino vaulter to clear six metres.
Since then, Obiena has continued to push the national record to new heights. His performances have helped raise the profile of Philippine athletics on the international stage.
Rainy Conditions Do Not Stop Obiena
The Nagoya final took place in rainy conditions on the final evening of athletics. Despite the weather, Obiena cleared 5.91m to secure the gold medal.
He finished the competition with the Games record intact. His performance demonstrated his ability to deliver under pressure at a major championship.
The Philippines Celebrates Another Pole Vault Triumph
Obiena’s victory extended the Philippines’ success in men’s pole vault at the Asian Games. His Hangzhou gold in 2023 was the country’s first title in the event since 1958.
Now, he has secured two consecutive Asian Games championships. His latest victory further strengthens his position as one of the Philippines’ most accomplished track and field athletes.
China’s Yao Jie and Li Chenyang shared the other podium positions after both cleared 5.70m. Obiena’s 5.91m stood alone as the highest clearance of the competition.
What’s Next for Ernest John Obiena?
At 30, Obiena leaves Nagoya with two Asian Games gold medals and two World Championships medals. His career also includes a historic six-metre clearance.
His continued success could inspire more young athletes in the Philippines to pursue pole vault and other field events.
For official results, athlete profiles and international athletics updates, visit World Athletics.
Obiena’s latest victory adds another milestone to a career that has placed Philippine pole vault among the world’s best.