From the Kitchen Counter…

Summit Officially Starts

Yesterday the Summit officially got off the ground with the Commencement of the USA Track and Field Elite Athlete program and  Summit Coaches meetings.  (involving conferences and group discussions)

One of the other ‘unofficial’ activities that usually happens on this day is athletes trying to squeeze in a work out.  After hers, Jenn Suhr (Olympic Gold Medalist-London) could be found in the lobby with her coach (and husband) and spent about an hour signing autographs and posing for pictures.

Renauld Lavillinie (Olympic Gold Medalist-London) went over to the arena and managed a little workout of his own.  He pretty much blew everyone away clearing 18’ 4” a couple of times in his jogging shoes like it was just another walk in the park.

The Pole Vault Hall of Fame dinner took place last night attended by coaches, staff, and athletes.  Yours truly emceed the evening and the only reason I tell you that is I had wanted to take more video clips but kept getting sidelined by my official responsibilities (read that gadding about.)  Anyway, I’m sharing what I managed to capture on my phone, the quality is horrible (note to self — do not turn phone sideways mid-shoot) and I obviously should stick to writing as I’m sure no photographer, but I hope it will give you the ‘flavor’ of the evening.  The inductees were Lee Barnes, Mel Mueller, and George Dales.

Fabian Murer – (Brazil) 2011 World Champion  2010 IAAF Indoor World Champion

Renauld Lavillinie, Phillipe D’encasses, Scott Huffman, and Phillip Collette

Jill Starky with Mr. and Mrs. Steve Hooker

Today begins official registration, opening of sessions and tonight the Elite Competitiion which should be a real barn burner.  Full day, plenty of fun, hope to improve my camera skills and I’ll see you here tomorrow!

That’s it for now From the Pole Vault Summit .