Rachel Venter!

Hudson Valley Flying Circus Athlete RACHEL VENTER!

Owner and Head Coach: Tim St. Lawrence

While her pole vault coach claims to be taking a slow approach to her development, Rachel Venter’s accomplishments at the pit have been nothing short of meteoric. She has broken the 7th and 8th grade New York state records seven times. At thirteen years old, her personal best is a whopping 11’1”.

Rachel started pole vaulting in 6th grade, after spending five years as a USAG competitive gymnast. She was both a state bars and all-around champion. Her middle school gym teacher, also the track coach, encouraged her to try track and field. After doing some research, her mom, Julie Kay, discovered the Hudson Valley Flying Circus nearly in their backyard. Rachel attended their annual BBQ meet as a spectator to see what pole vault was all about. She decided to try it for two months.

Two years later, Rachel is ranked 4th in the country for 8th grade girls according to U.S. Milesplit. Her work ethic explains it. She jumps two or three days a week, and builds strength with a personal trainer on two other days. During track season she attends school practice before heading over to The Barn for a vault session. She takes a full day of rest per week.

“Rachel Venter has a tremendous zeal for athletic flying,” says Coach Tim St. Lawrence. “She is a focused young girl with speed, dedication, and the will to achieve. One of the most respected girls at our club, Rachel finds the time to encourage others. We are taking a slow approach to her development, but she is in this for the long haul.”

Rachel is currently working on the flex and roll. The best part about pole vault is the friendships she has made with the girls she trains with. Coach St. always cheers her on and makes her smile. Rachel plans to compete in college and then vault professionally!

Rachel Venter

Photo provided by Julie Kay Christian.