4.65 metres. That’s the jump achieved by Samuel Burton at the Canadian track and field championships in Edmonton last weekend. It was a pole vault worthy of the silver medal for the athlete originally from Ormstown. And especially, it was a good dose of confidence for the Junior Pan-American Games which will take place at the same venue at the end of the month.
«It was my third presence at the Canadian junior championships and it went very well, » rejoiced the athlete from Alberta a few short days later. His leap of 4.65 metres represent his new personal best.
« Four years ago, he discovered the pole vault event in high school. After a few competitions, he was approached by Brian Woods to join the track club at the Claude Robillard Centre.Ever since, his career has taken off.
At the last Quebec Games, Burton shattered the new record for the event by 29 centimetres. Ironically, the old record belonged to his mentor, Brian Woods.
« To have success, one must be good everywhere. One must be fast in the sprint; it takes gymnastics to control the body in the air. Lots of exercises can help you to improve in the pole vault, » explained the 18-year-old Burton.
Next step: Pan-American Junior Games
At the end of the month, Burton is going to represent Canada at the Pan-American Junior Games in Edmonton. Canada is not recognized for being a dominating force in the pole vault. Burton will be eyeing the Americans and Europeans.
But Burton will jump with confidence since the competition takes place at the same site where he just finished performing in the Canadian junior championships.
« That adds lots of confidence, for sure. I will have no doubt in my mind before jumpring, » he said.
(Translated by Dan Rosenburg)
