ERNEST John (EJ) Obiena continues to not only inspire the next generation of pole vaulters, but also ties them to the dream of making a name for themselves and someday honoring the country.
Obiena took another step forward by establishing a new cutting-edge pole vault facility in Laoag, Ilocos Norte. Bringing the dream of helping the next generation of Filipino pole vaulters to worldwide rank one step closer.
The two-time Olympian believes in training these younger athletes to be self-sufficient rather than providing transitory answers. Underpinning the Olympian’s dedication to youth sports development.
Dreams to reality
As the saying goes, “Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime.” This adage has served as Obiena’s primary motivator in fulfilling a dream he is eager to realize.
In a Facebook post, the fourth-place finisher at the 2024 Paris Olympics emphasizes the significance of teaching the youth skills and self-sufficiency rather than providing them with temporary aid.
“It highlights the value of empowerment through education and guidance, allowing individuals to become independent and capable of sustaining themselves,” said Obiena.
“This saying has become a universal metaphor for effective teaching and mentorship. This is my first attempt to teach our young athletes how to “fish” for medals.”
“I believe in investing in our youth. I believe in the greatness that resides in every Filipino in every corner of the Philippines. Let this be simply the beginning,” added Obiena on his social media post.
Just the beginning
Obiena, who led the ribbon-cutting ceremony, promised that this is just the beginning of providing future generations with the resources they need to enhance their crafts.
“The main reason for this is for development and really to make sure we gain global success in the sport,” Obiena told the media during the facility’s opening at the FEM Memorial Stadium last November 22.
“This is basically my way of doing it, kickstarting it, and hopefully I teach you guys how to fish medals, not just in Palarong Pambansa and Southeast Asian Games but globally.”
“Hopefully, we’ll get athletes from Ilocos to represent the country with pride and honor. This is only the beginning. Mark my words, I am devoted to this. I really want to see the sport grow,” he added.
Furthermore, Obiena has already suggested to netizens about his next intention for this project. According to the pole vaulter’s article, their next facility would be in Tagum City, Davao del Norte.
Cleared to play
It should be noted that the 29-year-old Obiena withdrew from his remaining competitions this year due to a back ailment incurred during the Silesia leg of the Diamond League, where he finished fifth last August.
In late October, the star said that he had fully recovered from the aforementioned back issue and was looking forward to a new season next year. Obiena obtained permission from his doctor to begin getting back in shape.
He is set for a busy 2025, with appearances in a number of international competitions, including the renowned Southeast Asian Games, where he is the reigning three-time gold medalist.
