On brink of defeat, NCR pole vaulter sets new Palaro record
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AGUSAN DEL SUR, Philippines – National Capital Region pole vaulter Franceine Jhobie Rosario snatched victory from the jaws of defeat on the way to setting a new record in the 2026 Palarong Pambansa.
Rosario warded off a serious challenge from Bicol’s Lyka May Ramilo and defended her throne in the secondary girls’ pole vault at the Datu Lipus Makapandong Gov. Democrito O. Plaza Sports Complex in Prosperidad here on Thursday, May 28.
The UST High School standout cleared 3.15 meters to eclipse the previous mark of 2.75m she set in the 2025 Ilocos Norte edition as she got her groove back following a close call at 3.05m.
“It felt like I was going to lose,” Rosario said in Filipino. “But I didn’t let my nerves get the best of me. I toughened up and I did what I needed to do.”
Ramilo of Masbate Sports Academy had looked like she was on her way to a giant upset when she needed just a single attempt to hurdle 3.05m — a height that saw Rosario fail on her first two tries.
But Rosario, the reigning UAAP champion in the event, got her act together, leaping past 3.05m on her third attempt then clearing 3.10m and 3.15m.
Ramilo bungled her first try at 3.10m, skipped the height, and exhausted her last two attempts at 3.15m as the gold slipped from her grasp.
Despite the scare, the versatile Rosario reveled in the opportunity to write her name on the Palaro books before she moves on to the collegiate ranks.
“It feels great because this is my last year in the Palaro. I’m leaving behind a record before I leave the Palaro,” said Rosario.
One of the most outstanding athletes of this Palaro, Rosario also ruled the 100m and 200m events to claim the “Sprint Queen” title.
Rosario is coached by Emerson Obiena, the father of former world No. 2 pole vaulter EJ Obiena.
“I learned a lot from coach. Whether physical or mental, coach has helped me a lot,” said Rosario. – Rappler.com
المصدر: Rappler (PH)