Paul Babits almost made 16-1 on record Reno day
After Indiana coach Paul Babits cleared an indoor world M45 world record at Reno last weekend (15-9), I shot him a note with a few queries about the National Pole Vault Summit experience: What was your height progression? What kind of pole did you use? He got back to me today. Also, I’m happy to report that USATF included his record (as well as Bruce McBarnette’s in the M45 high jump) in its News & Notes edition of Jan. 30.
Here’s what Paul sent:
“Thanks for the kudos! No injuries to speak of other than a sore left knee and some everyday aches and pains. I started at 14-8, made it on a second attempt and then passed to the world record. Made that on a first attempt and then went to 16-1. I used one of my smallest poles, a 15.1 which is a 185 lb. test pole and held (at) 14-8. My second jump at 16-1 was actually my best even though I hit it on the way down. I had 6 inches to a foot of hip height.
“My indoor personal best is 18-2. I did that at Eastern Michigan in December of 1988, and I jumped 18-5 (5.63 meters) in May of 1996 to qualify for the Olympic Trials at an all-comers meet in Mexico. I’ve been over 18-0 at Sea Ray Relays, Illinois Classic, Gatorade invitational in Tampa twice, Eastern Michigan twice, University of Chicago, Tom Black in Knoxville; Jonesboro, Arkansas.
“I was the Jessee Owens champion in 1989, Dogwood Relays champion, Kentucky Relays champion, Mount SAC champion, Mason Dixon Champion, masters national Champion, 1979 State Champion in Michigan and a bunch more but I can’t remeber, I’m OLD!”
