Asian Games: EJ Obiena Wins the Philippines’ First Gold
Ernest John “EJ” Obiena has won the first gold medal of the Philippines in the ongoing Asian Games. The celebrated pole vaulter, who ranks second in the world, likewise broke an Asian Games record along the way.
This is because he was able to clear 5.90 meters on his first try. Doing so allowed him to surpass the previous Asian Games record held by Japan’s Seito Yamamoto. Yamamoto made history by clearing 5.70 meters in the 2018 edition of the Asian Games.
EJ Obiena Bags Gold in Men’s Pole Vault
Prior to breaking records with his 5.90-meter clearance, Obiena first cleared 5.55 meters in his first attempt. However, it took him two tries to clear 5.75 meters.
China’s Huang Bokai came in second place, while Saudi Arabia’s Hussain Asim Al Hizam won the bronze medal for the men’s pole vault competition. Both athletes cleared 5.65 meters.
They failed to clear 5.75 meters, which paved the way for Obiena to secure the gold medal for him and his country.
The Philippines in the Asian Games
As of press time, the Philippines only has one gold medal, one silver medal, and six bronze medals for a total of eight medals won. In contrast, People’s Republic of China has won the most medals as of writing. The country has 114 gold medals, 68 silver medals, and 34 bronze medals.
The lone silver medal thus far was won by Arnel Mandal in wushu.
Tennis athlete Alex Eala won two bronze medals for her and her country. The first of which was for the women’s single, while the second was won with Casey Alcantara in the mixed doubles.
The Philippines’ other bronze medals were won by the following:
- Patrick King Perez (Taekwondo – men’s individual poomsae)
- Jones Llabres Inso (Wushu – men’s taijiquan / taijijian all-around)
- Gideon Fred Padua (Wushu – men’s 60 kg)
- Clemente Tabugara Jr. (Wushi – men’s 60 kg)