Peter Hlavin’s high jump heaven: meeting Fosbury, Bondarenko
Former M55 AR high jumper Peter Hlavin of Southern California attended Willie Banks’ track camp the past two days in Chula Vista. “Thought I could use a high jump tune-up and I’m always open to learning new things,” he reports. “Wow! What a great time hanging out and being coached by Dick Fosbury. As everyone knows, Dick revolutionized the high jump by inventing the “Fosbury Flop” technique. He showcased his twisting, backward somersault style at the 1968 Olympics where he won gold and set both Olympic and American Records with a jump of 7-4.25 (2.24). Listening to the success stories of Willie and Dick, as well as Mac Wilkins (discus/shot put), Mike Powell (long jump) and Jacqueline Hansen (marathon) was truly inspiring.
Peter is second from left, next to Bondarenko, with Fosbury on other side.
Pete continues:
Dick Fosbury and our small but mighty group of high jumpers received a special bonus at Willie’s camp. Out of nowhere, Olympian Bohdan Bondarenko showed up at the high jump pit to watch us jump. Bondarenko was bronze medalist at the 2016 Rio Olympics and is third on the men’s all-time list with a jump of 7-11.25 (2.42). Lucky for us we had our cell phones handy and were able to capture this special moment.
This is amazing. Think of being a basketball fan and meeting Jerry West, Michael Jordan and LeBron James at a clinic. Nothing beats track for access to the legends.
And as I’ve said before: The guy in the next lane could be an Olympian.
Happy new year, all you fantasy trackos out there. May your 2017 dreams come true!
5 Responses
Are you kidding me?!? I am green with envy here in wintry South Bend! My buddy Pete has a knack for finding the most unique and interesting scenarios. Pete, I expect a full report on this :-).
Such a great story and great photo. M55 has some of the strongest US HJ competitors, and now Pete has a few new tricks up his sleeve.
Absolutely agree, Rob Jerome. Pete Hlavin is a wonderful jumper, but he has been challenged by other top jumpers of a similar age, including Bruce McBarnette, Tom Foley, and other stalwarts. Hope to see as many as possible of these fine jumpers in New Mexico next month.
As you know, Rob, the deadline for regular entry is drawing near. Hope to see you out there in Albuquerque.
Top drawer
That’s so cool, Peter!! ’64 and ’68 Olympic high jumper Ed Caruthers graciously introduced me to Mr. Fosbury at Stanford University during the 2009 National Senior Games. Both are my heroes!
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