Papa Bell, in his late 80s, keeps ringing up awesome vault marks

Papa Bell in 2004.

Three years ago, Dr. William Bell set an M85 world indoor record in the vault at Boston nationals. He went 2.44 (8-0). Now 88, Papa Bell (father of Olympian Earl Bell) cleared 2.29 (7-6) at the Bell Athletics indoor facility Sunday in Jonesboro, Arkansas, according to a masters mole. He was taking part in the annual Vaultstock event (think Woodstock without rain, drugs and naked girls). Not sure why the Bell Athletics website refers to “Grandpa Bell, new world record holder.” But maybe it’s a reference to his bettering the listed M85 outdoor WR of 2.24 (7-4 1/4) by Carol Johnston in 1997. A video of Papa Bell vaulting is on this site, BTW.

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June 1, 2010

4 Responses

  1. John - June 1, 2010

    Wow, another devious athlete making false claims on a web site. Sick ’em Ken.

  2. Jeff Davison - June 2, 2010

    I saw him in Decatur, IL several years ago – just an amazing talent.

  3. Nadine O'Connor - June 3, 2010

    I first met Dr. Bell in Decatur and remember being equally impressed. He is so fluid and graceful that he makes it look so easy. But, it’s not!

    My fondest memories are of Dr. and Mrs. Bell: Both kind, gentle, gracious and engaging people.

  4. marc henri - March 26, 2012

    hi guys,
    grandpa bell did a new record for his 90’s birthday, few day ago!!!
    amazing, no?
    super grandpa, let’s go on!!!

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