Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 19) — One of the Philippines’ brightest medal hopefuls in the 2017 South East Asian Games pole vaulter EJ Obiena has been sidelined by injury before the competition.
Obiena confirmed to CNN Philippines that initial diagnosis indicates a possible anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear on the knee.
“(The) doctor suggests to let it rest and relieve the swelling to make sure that it is really torn,” Obiena said.
At the 2015 edition games, Obiena finished with a silver medal after registering a leap of 5.25m.
Obiena confirmed to CNN Philippines that initial diagnosis indicates a possible anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear on the knee.
“(The) doctor suggests to let it rest and relieve the swelling to make sure that it is really torn,” Obiena said.
With Obiena out of the biennial meet, he expressed his disappointment but took time to send his regards to the rest of the Philippine team in Malaysia.
“I’m wishing them the best of luck, and hopefully my absence there won’t affect the Philippines’ rankings,” Obiena added. “I’m hoping that they bring home a lot of gold.”
The 21-year-old athlete is the national record holder in pole vaulting with a personal best of 5.61m, which he set July 2017.
