The Philippine Olympic Committee is mulling the possibility of hosting a world-class pole vault competition in the country to afford Filipino fans a chance to watch EJ Obiena in action against the world’s top athletes.
“The Picnic Grove here could be an ideal venue,” said POC president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino who is also mayor of Tagaytay City.
Picnic Grove is a popular Tagaytay destination with a scenic view of the lake and active volcano.
“With the Taal Volcano as backdrop, what more could you ask for — a world-class pole vault action in one of the most picturesque tourist attractions in the country. Every jump will be postcard-perfect.”
In a radio interview, Obiena also broached the idea of not only one but multiple legs.
“Hopefully it happens. It doesn’t just need to be one leg right? It can be two or three legs. If we’re already here, why not have it a bit longer?” Obiena asked.
“It would be nice to have a home court advantage.”
Obiena said he pitched the idea to Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association president Terry Capistrano who is pleased with the idea.
Obiena also pitched the idea to World Athletics, who vowed to support the venture.
“When it comes to sanctioning the event, I talked to sir Terry Capistrano and he’s positive about it. I also talked to World Athletics and said ‘Yeah, we’ll support you in this venture,’” Obiena said.
The 26-year-old pole vaulter is currently in the Philippines after a grueling outdoor season that saw him clinch the bronze medal in the World Athletics Championship last July in Eugene, Oregon.
