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Number three pole vaulter in the 2024 World Athletics Rankings, EJ Obiena, recently hosted a vibrant meet and greet event, "High Flying Hangout," on September 15 in Pasay City. The event was a huge success with Filipino fans of all ages, including children, coming out in full force to hear the Olympian's inspiring words.

EJ delighted the crowd as it was also a fundraising event to boost the Philippines' pole vaulting scene. He shared his vision of setting up pole vault pits nationwide to help young athletes train and develop their skills. "I hope that these pits would be able to raise the next generation of pole vaulters," EJ said in a coverage from GMA Integrated News.

Looking ahead, EJ shared he aims to return to the competition in early 2025, depending on the results of an upcoming MRI scan. The scan will determine if his spine injury from the Silesia leg of the Diamond League has healed. “I really would prepare for the indoor season next year. January, February, around late March,” he explained.

EJ plans to head back to Italy on September 22 to continue his recovery and begin training for future events. He emphasized the importance of the MRI scan to ensure his bones are fully healed. “We'll know [the results] in a few weeks,” he added.

At the meet and greet event, EJ's coach, Vitaly Petrov, expressed strong confidence in EJ's potential, believing he could surpass his personal best of 6.00 meters. “I see 6.10, 6.15 [meters] is possible for EJ. He is ready for this,” Vitaly said.

Besides his coach, EJ's parents Emerson and Jeanette also showed full support for their son during the event. Friends such as volleyball star Alyssa Valdez and legendary pole vaulter Sergey Bubka were present at the event as well.

Meanwhile, take a closer look at EJ's “High Flying Hangout,” in this gallery: