Ernest John Obiena fell short in his title defense at the ORLEN Copernicus Cup after he finished in sixth place in Torun, Poland on Monday (Manila time).

The 30-year-old Obiena cleared 5.65 meters but was unable to get past 5.75m after three tries.

Obiena needs to clear 5.90m. before 8 March to enter the World Athletics Indoor Championships in Poland from 20 to 22 March.

Sondre Guttormsen of Norway won the competition after soaring past 5.85m while Christopher Nilsen of the United States settled for a silver medal after clearing 5.80m.

Norwegian pole vaulter Simen Guttormsen clinched the bronze medal after clearing 5.80m.