ON
← Back to feed
More in the tank: EJ Obiena finding groove again
PH⚽ Sports25 days ago

More in the tank: EJ Obiena finding groove again

EJ Obiena, a Philippine pole vaulter who fell out of the top 10 world rankings due to a series of setbacks, is showing signs of recovery and a potential career resurgence. He attributes his improved performance to training in Formia, Italy, under Ukrainian coach Vitaly Petrov, and his recent move to Athens, Greece, where he trains with Olympic medalist Emmanouil Karalis. Obiena explains that he had to leave Petrov's program after his main training partners, Huang Bokai and Hussain Al-Hizam, stepped away from competitive athletics. Training with Karalis, who holds the second-highest jump in history, has provided Obiena with valuable competition and guidance. Despite his new environment, Obiena remains connected to Petrov, acknowledging the coach's significant role in his development.

EJ Obiena, the Philippines' top pole vaulter, is showing signs of recovery after a period of struggle that saw him fall out of the world's top 10 rankings. The 30-year-old athlete has begun to regain his form, with recent performances indicating a potential revival in his career. In a recent interview with Rappler, Obiena expressed optimism about his future, stating that he is gradually rebuilding the confidence he once had and looking forward to the rest of the season. Obiena's journey toward regaining his competitive edge has taken him through several changes in training environments. Initially, he trained in Formia, Italy, under the guidance of Ukrainian coach Vitaly Petrov, a key figure in his development as a top-tier athlete. However, after his longtime training partners, Chinese athlete Huang Bokai and Saudi Arabian competitor Hussain Al-Hizam, moved on from the sport due to personal commitments, Huang becoming a father and Al-Hizam getting married, Obiena found himself training largely alone. This shift prompted him to seek a new environment where he could continue to grow and compete effectively. In response to these challenges, Obiena decided to relocate to Athens, Greece, to train alongside Emmanouil Karalis, a fellow Olympic medalist known for his consistent high-level performance. Karalis, currently ranked second in the world behind Swedish two-time Olympic champion Armand Duplantis, brings valuable experience and competition to Obiena's training regimen. The move to Athens also allows Obiena to work with a comprehensive coaching team led by Polish mentor Marcin Szczepanski, further enhancing his training environment. Despite the transition, Obiena maintains a close connection with Petrov, acknowledging the significant role his former coach played in his athletic and personal growth. Their 12-year partnership helped Obiena achieve notable milestones, including reaching a career-high world ranking of No. 2, securing silver and bronze medals at the World Athletics Championships, and becoming the sole Asian athlete to join the elite six-meter club. Although the decision to part ways with Petrov was difficult, Obiena emphasizes the lasting impact of their relationship and continues to value the support and mentorship he received. The change in scenery appears to be benefiting Obiena significantly. His recent performances suggest that he is adapting well to the new training conditions and is beginning to show improved results. While specific details about his latest competitions remain unclear, the overall trend indicates a positive trajectory for his career. As he continues to develop his skills and maintain strong relationships within the athletic community, Obiena is positioning himself for future success in the pole vaulting arena. Obiena's focus remains on continuous improvement and maintaining the competitive spirit that has defined his career thus far. With the support of his current training group and the enduring influence of his former coach, he is determined to reclaim his place among the world's top athletes. His journey highlights the importance of adaptability and resilience in the face of changing circumstances, as he navigates the challenges of professional sports with determination and dedication.

2 reports

Rappler logoRapplerIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 8025 days ago
EJ Obiena boosts world top 10 bid with back-to-back golds in Germany

Filipino pole vaulter EJ Obiena won gold at the 30th International Pole Vault Meeting in Jockgrim, Germany, with a clearance of 5.83 meters, securing his seventh first-place finish of the year. This follows his previous victory in Germany at the 1st International Pole Vault Meeting in Halberstadt, where he achieved 5.76 meters. Obiena aims to re-enter the world top 10 rankings and currently holds the 13th position. He struggled during the competition but managed to clear the 5.80-meter bar four times in his last five competitions. Despite attempting to reach 5.93 meters, he was unsuccessful. The event saw Qatar's Seifeldin Abdelsalam take silver and Turkey's Ersu Sasma win bronze. Obiena is now training in Athens, Greece, under the guidance of current world No. 2 Emmanouil Karalis.

Bias read (Center): The article focuses solely on athletic performance and competition results, with no mention of political figures, policies, or contentious issues. It provides factual information about EJ Obiena's achievements in sports without any apparent bias or framing that suggests a political stance.

Why factuality (85): The article reports on EJ Obiena's performance at the 30th International Pole Vault Meeting in Jockgrim, Germany, citing specific details like his height clearance (5.83m) and his position in the world rankings (No. 13). These facts align with typical reporting on athletic competitions and are consi

Why objectivity (80): The tone is positive and celebratory, emphasizing Obiena's success and progress toward his goals. While the article presents information objectively, it uses emotionally charged language such as 'boosts world top 10 bid' and 'rules' which may lean slightly toward a favorable perspective.

Rappler logoRapplerIndependentCenterFactual 80Objective 758/1/2026
More in the tank: EJ Obiena finding groove again

EJ Obiena, a Philippine pole vaulter who fell out of the top 10 world rankings due to a series of setbacks, is showing signs of recovery and a potential career resurgence. He attributes his improved performance to training in Formia, Italy, under Ukrainian coach Vitaly Petrov, and his recent move to Athens, Greece, where he trains with Olympic medalist Emmanouil Karalis. Obiena explains that he had to leave Petrov's program after his main training partners, Huang Bokai and Hussain Al-Hizam, stepped away from competitive athletics. Training with Karalis, who holds the second-highest jump in history, has provided Obiena with valuable competition and guidance. Despite his new environment, Obiena remains connected to Petrov, acknowledging the coach's significant role in his development.

Bias read (Center): The article focuses on sports performance and training logistics without any political implications. The narrative is objective, detailing Obiena's personal journey and training decisions without taking a stance or promoting ideological positions.

Why factuality (80): This article provides background on Obiena's recent performance and personal circumstances, including his coaching changes and training environment. The information is presented based on interviews and statements from Obiena himself, which are common in sports reporting. While the facts are consiste

Why objectivity (75): The article has a more narrative style, focusing on Obiena's personal journey and challenges. It includes direct quotes from Obiena expressing his emotions and motivations, which introduces a level of subjectivity. The framing suggests a positive turn in his career, though it remains focused on his

How each side covered it

The same event, grouped by the political lean of the outlets covering it.

How each side covered it

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.

Become a Supporter

Covered around the world

The same event as reported in other countries.

Covered around the world

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.

Become a Supporter

Claims check

Key factual claims, and how many sources assert vs dispute each.

Claims check

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.

Become a Supporter

Keep the news honest.

ObjectiveNews is reader-funded and ad-free — we show you the bias instead of hiding it. Support independent journalism for €4/month.

Become a Supporter

Related stories