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EJ Obiena prematurely ends 2024 campaign due to back injury
Filipino Olympian and pole vault star Ernest John “EJ” Obiena abruptly drew the curtains on his 2024 campaign to avoid aggravating the spine injury that has pestered him for months.
Obiena, currently the third-ranked pole vaulter in the world, announced the development on Wednesday in his social media accounts, explaining that he will miss the Internationale Stadionfest or ISTAF Berlin in Germany, Weltklasse Zurich in Switzerland, and the Diamond League Final in Belgium in September after being diagnosed with a fractured L5 vertebra.
PHOTO COURTESY: GMA NEWS
“I intended to compete in three more competitions before flying back to Manila. However, during the Silesia Diamond League this past weekend, the same back pain that has bothered me all season flared up. Due to the continual spasms, I couldn’t finish my last few attempts," Obiena said.
“I immediately went to my doctor in Italy, and the MRI revealed what appeared to be a stress fracture in my spine. Unfortunately, a later CAT scan confirmed the diagnosis. I have a fractured L5 vertebra."
Obiena said it will take at least four weeks of healing and vowed to come back in 2025, which would include the Southeast Asian Games in Thailand.
“Hopefully, now that I have identified the source of my back problems this year, with the required four weeks off to heal, I am hoping to return pain-free and ready for the 2025 indoor season!” said Obiena.
The 28-year-old will also have to sit out the Philippine International Pole Vault Challenge set to be staged at the Ayala Triangle Garden on September 20. Although it is uncertain whether the meet would push through, the two-time Olympian noted that he will post “more information” soon.
“The best thing to do right now, with ensuring my best future, is to rest and recuperate and come back even stronger. I am going to honor my promise: "You'll see more of me, and the Philippine flag will be raised on a global scale." It will simply have to wait a bit longer. Thank you for your support. I love you all and promise. I'll be back!"
