Willie Banks nets M50 American Record, misses WR
Willie Banks, the former open WR man in the triple jump, added another masters record to his collection Saturday at the Club West Masters meet at UC Santa Barbara. He writes he had only two fouls in his series, topped by a wind-legal 14.00 (45-11 1/4) — which crushes the listed American record for that age group of 13.19 (43- 3¼) by Dave Jackson in 1982 but is short of the 14.07 world record. Willie writes: “Santa Barbara was great, but the runway was not long enough for me to get in my long run. I started behind the back pit and on the side. It was a little bit difficult, so I think if I had a straight run I would be in better form to jump over 14.50.” Willie did jump 13.31 (43-8) last month in Japan, but I’m not sure of the wind reading on that one. Willie wants to jump again this season, but isn’t available for the Long Beach State meet on Oct. 22. Anyone know of a meet later in October or in November? Willie concluded: “Yes, I plan to jump in Italy (at Riccone worlds) next year.” Stay fit, champ.
4 Responses
Great job by Willie. I was glad to witness the event, and impressed by Willie’s great attitude the entire meet . . . to take pictures, to be interviewed, and shake peoples hands – while he was trying to compete
very impressive. And then
to get the AR . . . way to go Willie !
Jeff
I agree with Jeff. I remember many years ago in Wakayama, Japan, Willie led a contingent of dozens of kids around the track. It was quite a scene.Willie is a nice, kind gentleman.Congratulations for the record Willie. And many more.
Congratulations Willie…Willie was kind enought to share some training ideas with me while I was teaching and coaching in Koriyama, Japan in the early 90’s…gambatte!!
No question: Willie is not only a great athlete, but a class act as well. Congratulations, Willie! And thanks for taking the time to give some long jump tips to this old lady.
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