EJ makes a strong comeback!

Filipino Olympian and pole vaulter EJ Obiena kicked off his indoor season with a strong performance, securing the silver medal at the International Jump Meeting Cottbus held at the Lausitz-Arena in Germany.

The two-time Olympian cleared 5.65 meters to finish second behind fellow Olympian and Paris Olympics silver medalist Sam Kendricks of the United States.

Obiena successfully cleared the 5.40m, 5.55m, and 5.65m bars on his first attempts, before opting to skip 5.70m. He then attempted to clear 5.75m but fell short after three tries.

Meanwhile, local bet Bo Kanda Lita Baehre secured the bronze medal after clearing 5.65 meters on his first attempt, though he needed two tries to clear 5.55 meters.

This is Obiena's first competition since his early exit from last year's outdoor season due to a back injury.

While recovering from a spine injury, Obiena seized the opportunity to visit the Philippines, where he participated in various media and fan events, including the launch of the first-ever pole vault training facility in Ilocos Norte.