Thriving under pressure catapulted EJ Obiena to win Asian Games gold

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 2) — As one of the most decorated Filipino athletes, EJ Obiena has definitely learned to deal with pressure every time he competes.

The 27-year-old shared that flourishing in the face of adversity separated him from the competition in the 19th Asian Games in China.

Obiena captured the country's first gold medal in the Asian Games after topping the men's pole vault event over the weekend.

"The most challenging part was trying to stay fit. The competition was a consequence of a lot of things. It was not easy but I kind of thrive in pressure. I enjoy the pressure," he told CNN Philippines' Sports Desk Monday.

Obiena, the world No. 2 pole vaulter, said he is aware of the areas he needs to improve on leading up to the Paris Olympics next year.

"I understood what it takes to be on the top. I think a little bit better than anyone else, I need to learn to do that. The test of time had made me stronger," he said. As one of the most decorated Filipino athletes, EJ Obiena has definitely learned to deal with pressure every time he competes.