Filipino Olympian EJ Obiena, currently ranked as the world number three pole vaulter, is on a mission to revolutionize the sport in his home country. Obiena is spearheading an initiative to build pole vault pits across the Philippines, aiming to provide aspiring athletes with the necessary tools to hone their craft. This ambitious project was highlighted during a recent meet and greet event, which also served as a fundraiser for his cause.

The Need for Pole Vault Facilities in the Philippines

The state of pole vault facilities in the Philippines is dire. Currently, there are only a few pits available, located at the University of Santo Tomas, Rizal Memorial Complex, and the Ultra Track Oval in Pasig. This scarcity of proper training equipment poses significant challenges for aspiring pole vaulters, limiting their opportunities to develop their skills.

Obiena envisions a future where pole vaulting is accessible to all, not just those in Metro Manila and other urbanized areas. "I want to do it in corners or places where there's really not a lot of facilities," he explained. By distributing pits across the country, Obiena hopes to create a more equitable environment for young athletes to explore and excel in the sport.

Fundraising Efforts and Community Support

The meet and greet event, attended by 300 fans, was a testament to the community's support for Obiena's initiative. The warm reception he received was overwhelming. "I am a bit shocked. It's quite a bit too much and I really apologize to everyone that was not able to come in," Obiena said, expressing his gratitude.

Notable athletes like Alyssa Valdez and Jamie Lim contributed to the event, adjusting their schedules to support the fundraiser. "All these girls that were there with me on the panel, they did this with the goodness of heart," Obiena noted. The collective effort of the community and fellow athletes underscores the importance of unity in achieving the goal of building more pole vault pits.

Long-term Goals and Future Plans

Obiena's vision extends beyond just building pits. He is collaborating with collegiate leagues to include pole vaulting at the junior level, aiming to foster interest in the sport from a young age. Additionally, he is encouraging more Filipinas to participate in pole vaulting, highlighting the potential for success in international competitions.

Recent female pole vaulters like Natalie Uy and Alyana Nicolas have already made their mark, with Uy winning bronze at the 23rd Asian Athletics Championships and Nicolas bagging bronze at the 2021 Southeast Asian Games. Obiena believes that with more representation, the Philippines can achieve even greater success in the sport.

To ensure the sustainable development of pole vaulting, Obiena plans to set up clinics and coach's seminars. "My key is I hope that these pits would be able to raise the next generation of pole vaulters," he said. By equipping coaches with the necessary knowledge and skills, Obiena aims to create a long-term investment with promising returns.

Obiena also hopes for increased government support and financial backing for the sport. The recent citation and cash incentive worth P1 million from President Ferdinand R. Marcos is a step in the right direction, but more consistent support is needed to truly elevate the sport in the country.

Conclusion

EJ Obiena's initiative to build pole vault pits across the Philippines is a significant step towards nurturing future athletes. By making training facilities more accessible, Obiena aims to discover new talents and create a brighter future for Filipino pole vaulters. His commitment to the sport and his vision for its development are commendable, and with continued community and government support, the Philippines could soon become a powerhouse in pole vaulting.

Despite recent setbacks, including a back injury, Obiena remains optimistic about holding a 'world-class' pole vault competition next year. His unwavering dedication to the sport and his efforts to give back to the community highlight the potential for a transformative impact on the future of pole vaulting in the Philippines.