Two-time Olympic pole vaulter EJ Obiena makes his 2025 debut in Germany as he joins the International Jump Meeting Cottbus next Wednesday, Jan. 29.

The 29-year-old Obiena will launch his season at Lausitz-Arena where he won a silver two years ago. 

He cleared 5.77 meters in that event, finishing behind gold winner Sam Kendricks of the USA (5.82m) and ahead of bronze medalist Ben Broeders of Belgium (5.72m).

Obiena, an Asian and Southeast Asian Games champion, is excited to open another year in his already decorated career.

“Back at it after what seems like forever! On the 29th, I’ll be kicking off my indoor season in Cottbus, Germany,” Obiena said on his social media post.

“I’m excited to be back in the thick of things and to see what’s in store,” he added.

Elite pole vaulters are expected to join as well in the competition which serves as a springboard for upcoming major events including the World Athletics Indoor Championships in Nanjing, China slated March 21 to 23.

This also marks Obiena’s return after his long respite last year due to a lower back injury.