MANILA, Philippines — Pole vaulter Ernest John 'EJ' Obiena revealed that he's not in top physical shape heading to the Paris Olympics despite his best efforts to reach elite form.
In a Facebook post on Saturday evening, Obiena, venting out his frustrations, said he's battled physical struggles and even undergone medical procedures in the past months to try and get his body in optimal condition.
"If you had asked me a year ago how I would envision the "perfect" Olympic preparation, well it certainly wouldn't be what has transpired! It has been what can only be termed a bumpy road for me this season. Despite my best efforts at conditioning, fitness and discipline, I have been battling with various physical problems since April," shared Obiena.
Ranked second in the world rankings of his sport, Obiena just couldn't fathom the timing of such physical problems which he did not specify.
"I know and fully understand this can happen to athletes training at such intensity and no complaints...but why now!?!? This has meant constant stops and stitching training and competition together with my team as well as we could. I have undergone in the past months, weeks and days a variety of medical procedures, to hopefully give myself the best shot at the Olympic Games."
The 28-year-old Obiena, who last competed at the Wanda Diamond League - Meeting De Paris where finished fourth on July 7, remains resolute, though.
Obiena, one of the Philippine top bets to win a medal in Paris, believes he can still perform at a high level.
"Am I feeling confident with my preparation? Well, definitely not as much as I would like!! Am I doing the best I can each day? Yes and most definitely yes!!! Not what I wanted but we're still standing and I still have a few more days to prepare and sharpen," said Obiena.
"I know these things happen. All athletes at an Olympic level deal with such adversities. I know not everything is in my control. I am an optimist by-nature. Can I perform at the highest level? YES, I BELIEVE I CAN!
"I am a proud Filipino and that means I am resilient and have weathered far worse situations. I promise you all I will give not 99% but all 100%! Thank you everyone for your support."
Obiena leads the charge for the Philippine athletics team in Paris which also includes hurdlers Lauren Hoffman and John Cabang.
He will be the first to compete at the Stade de France in the men's qualification round on August 3 at 10 a.m. local time or around 4 p.m. in Manila.
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