EJ Obiena believes World Pole Vault Challenge was good learning experience for Hokett Delos Santos

For EJ Obiena, the recently concluded World Pole Vault Challenge is just the start of bigger opportunities for Hokett Delos Santos.

Delos Santos, a silver medalist in the 2022 Southeast Asian Games, is among those considered next in line to carry the torch for Philippine pole vaulting, alongside Elijah Cole. He is also coached by EJ’s father, Emerson Obiena.

Delos Santos earned a spot among the nine elite vaulters who competed last Sunday after winning the National Pole Vault Competition the day before, where he cleared 5.00 meters. However, he fell short in the main event, failing to clear 4.90 meters.

“It’s a really good opportunity for him, even though the result didn’t play out the way I believe he wanted,” said EJ.

For the Filipino Olympian, just competing in a world-class local meet is already a major learning experience for Delos Santos.

“We don’t have these competitions. This is the first. This is the biggest. This is way bigger than the SEA Games, Asian Games. This is world-class,” Obiena said. “This is the first time he stepped foot on this track with us. He might’ve had the nerves, he might’ve gotten intimidated, but you learn from that.”

“I think this is a huge step for him in terms of experience, getting to know the world of pole vault, and what it’s like competing with guys who’ve cleared six meters. I believe this is just the start for him, and I’m really proud that he went out there and did the best he could.”

Obiena also expressed hope that both Delos Santos and Cole will be able to compete in the next Southeast Asian Games.

“If Hokett can win it, and Elijah too, I would love to see them really battle it out and gain the experience of winning a Southeast Asian Games,” he said. “But we’ll see. Hokett is in good shape, Elijah is getting there, so we’ll see.”

Hokett's personal record is at 5.15 meters, while the silver and bronze medalist of the 2023 Southeast Asian Games, Kasinpob Chomchanad and Patsapong Amsam-ang, both cleared 5.20 meters. EJ then cleared 5.65 meters for the gold.

—JMB, GMA Integrated News