If I Knew Then with 2016 Olympic Silver Medalist Sandi Morris

Having endeavors outside of pole vault will benefit you greatly.

My hobbies really do keep me sane!

I recently moved to Atlanta and the time spent commuting has been so difficult for me… but I am slowly adjusting and figuring out how to balance my schedule so I still have time for the many things I love. I try to set aside 20 minutes to play my ukulele on the porch while I have my coffee. Those minutes to yourself crafting hobbies is so important.

Pole vaulting is my world, but I have to find ways to step away from it mentally so I don’t burn out. I save the obsessive mindset for when I am at training, or for when I set aside time to watch pole vault videos and study the event… but then I try to step away and allow myself to be a whole person – a multi-faceted one. Guitar, violin, ukulele, singing, taking care of my animals, gardening, writing… the list goes on and on!

I am passionate about many things, and expressing my love for nature and creativity keeps my soul happy. Then when I return to thinking about pole vault, I feel energized and refreshed thanksto those mental breaks.

Sandi Morris is a 2-time Olympian and the 2016 Olympic Silver medalist in the women’s pole vault. A 6-time U.S. Champion and the 2018 World Champion, Sandi has also earned 2 silver medals from the World Championships. Photo of Sandi (and our son, @polevaultprobs) is from the Winston-Salem Street Vault in 2013. She borrowed his poles!

Photo provided by Sandi Morris