Mikayla Linebarger ties girl national record in pole vault

Mikayla Linebarger, an 8th grader from Mendive Middle School in Sparks, NV tied a national USTAF record in the pole vault for 13-14 year old division with a 3.70 vault (12’ 1½”) this past weekend at the Jackson Open Indoor Meet in Boise, Idaho.  

The record dates back to 1998, when one of the original pioneers in girl vaulters, Samantha Shepard from Massachusetts set the mark.

Weighting less than nothing, Mikayla only has 14 months experience in the pole vault.  Her background is in cheerleading and gymnastics which helps you understand her ability fly!  Hard work over the summer has paid off for her immensely; compare last year’s PR for Mikayla at 10’-6” to her first meet this year at 12-1½!!  Her goal by the end of the year, 13’ (which would be a world record!), could be obtainable if she keeps this pace up! 

Next meet I’m sure she’ll go 3.71 and take the national mark on her way to 13’!  Good luck Mikayla… we’ll keep an eye on you!