PoleVaultPower.com

OK, I am on a 14" pole 145, holding about 9 inches from the top. I am going from my 8 step at 96-97 feet. When I vault, I aam able to withstand the bend and able to take-off but Im having trtouble actually getting in, ie. at the top I stall out. I was hoping for some advice.

Im hoping I dont have to move my hand grip down, Im looking to show up my coach and pull it off.

most of the time when i see vvaulters that move up a 14 ft poles having trouble get in is that when using a 13 ft pole most dont really have to have a great swing to move the pole so on 14 ft pole they dont hold the swing long enough to get in even if they run fast

if i am wrong plz correct me

One thing you failed to mention...how high did you jump on a 13'pole? I am a big believer in holding low and jumping high. If you are jumping over your hands, then you probably have the ability to go to a 14' pole. You mentioned that you are not penetrating. That sends up a danger flag to me. it is better to move down to a 13' pole and jump 14' than not get in on a 14' pole. I have had the good fortune to watch Derek Miles jump really high from two steps out. That told me to focus on technique, rather than hold high. During our summer sessions, we seldom go from more than 3-4 strides. I coached a young ahlete that went 10'6" holding at 9'6" from three strides. She was only 4'10" tall. I work with another athlete that can jump close to 14' from three strides. Listen to your coach and focus on your technique. Don't worry about the length of the stick. Holding high or getting on a big stick when you are not ready to do so will get you hurt.

Good luck
LPVG
BV Coach