STARTING his outdoor season campaign, Filipino pole vault ace Ernest John "EJ" Obiena bagged a silver medal at the Eurowings Flight Circus in Dusseldor, Germany early Monday in Manila.
Obiena cleared 5.74 m on his second attempt as he finished second to American Chris Nilsen who aced 5.83 m in the completion held at the scenic Rhine Promenade.
The 30-year-old Obiena tried to soar above 5.83 m twice but failed.
He used his last attempt at 5.90 m to no avail.
Qatari Seifeldin Abdelsalam took the bronze medal with a 5.65-m clearance.
Obiena said he will next compete in the Doha leg of the Diamond League on June 19.
"5.74 m for 2nd place here in Dusseldorf to start the 2026 outdoor season. Battled through some swirling winds but overall happy with how it all went," wrote Obiena in an Instagram post.
“Next stop Doha, Qatar on June 19 for the first leg of the Diamond League season. Para sa bayan (for the country).”
Obiena was delighted to have drawn support from the Filipino crown in Dussledorf.
“What a surprise to have Filipinos screaming in the crowd,” said Obiena.
“Maraming maraming salamat po sa pagsubaybay (thank you so much for watching).” NIEL VICTOR MASOY
