Sam Kendricks qualifies for Rio Olympics pole vault
The qualifiers for the Rio OIympics pole vault for the United States was held in Eugene, Oregon. Among the Olympic hopefuls was Sam Kendricks, who happens to be an army reservist. Qualification for the Olympics in Brazil would mean that he gets an opportunity to represent his country in another way. (For great vaulting poles, such as this 13’ 1.5” Mean Green Skypole, check out BuyPoleVaultPoles.com)
On Independence Day, Kendricks emerged victorious in the qualifiers to book his spot in the 2016 Rio Olympics. Kendricks, who is a second lieutenant, qualified in style: he broke the previous US Track and Field Trials jump record. Elated as a result of this accomplishment, he brandished the flag with pride and enthusiasm. He had this to say after the win, "I love to have the colors (of the flag) in my hands. I'm lucky and I'm very thankful for the grace to befall on me that I get to do this and compete for my country. My commitment to my country comes first and foremost."
The US Armed Forces was well represented on the day as they had another one of their own excel. Cale Simmons (US Air Force) finished second in the event. Coming in at number three was Logan Cunningham. The Air Force had two more representatives present: Dylan Bell and Joey Uhle. Unfortunately, neither of the two was able to proceed. Bell had the misfortune of having his vaulting pole snap on one of his attempts. Uhle was unable to clear one of the jumps, and he had this to say, "it messes with your mind a bit, throws you off your balance.” Kendricks had nothing but respect for his fellow troopers: "All great jumpers and serving their country on two fronts.”
Kendricks, who is only 23 years old, convincingly qualified for the Olympics. He did so by jumping a height of 19 feet and 4 ž inches (approximately 5.91 meters).
(To be continued in the next part)