Photo credit: EJ Obiena Instagram

After the Paris Olympics, where he narrowly missed the podium with a 4th-place finish, EJ Obiena has a powerful message for his fans: he’s far from done. In a heartfelt Instagram post, the Filipino pole vaulter shared his reflections on the Olympics and what’s next for him.

“Hi everyone ,” EJ began. “I have been trying to read everyone’s messages to me, post-Olympics. So much to take from it, but I draw two immediate conclusions.”

First, EJ expressed his deep gratitude for the outpouring of support he received. “I am filled with gratitude for the support of all of you, and to be loved at times like this, by the country that raised me. I am indeed blessed!! Thank you!”

But he didn’t stop there. EJ also took the opportunity to remind everyone that his journey is far from over. “The measure of a man or woman is NOT a singular event—like the Olympics—but a cumulative or collective measure over time. I finished 4th in Paris, close but not good enough. I am not measured by this. I am measured by my career.”

And in true EJ fashion, he left his fans with a promise: “I commit to everyone now, I am back in training, I am back in the game, and I am going to attack the rest of the season and make you proud. You are going to see more from me, and see the Philippine Flag raised and raised on a global stage. Let’s get on with it! ”

EJ Obiena’s resilience and determination are inspiring, reminding us all that one event doesn’t define a career. With his return to training, there’s no doubt we’ll be seeing even more from this incredible athlete in the future.