Filipino medal hopeful and world number two Ernest John Obiena fought an early elimination scare and eased his way through the finals of the 2024 Paris Olympics men’s athletics pole vault qualifiers Saturday evening at Stade de France.

But it was an unlikely struggle for Obiena at the lower height of 5.6 meters, missing his first two tries before passing and forcing himself to a do-or-die jump at 5.7 meters.

It was cruise control for the former UST Growling Tiger since, clearing said height and the subsequent 5.75 meters with relative ease.

The top 12 jumpers of the qualification are in to the finals.

The reigning Asian Games gold medalist will vie for a much coveted medal on Tuesday at 1 AM, Philippine time.

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(Photo from EJ Obiena’s Facebook account).