Falling short of the State Track and Field meet my freshman and sophomore year was definitely a setback in my pole vaulting career. My freshman year I was third in the district, therefore, I advanced to the regional meet. I tied my personal record that meet with a jump of 9 foot, placing seventh in the region. I was proud of myself for making it there in the first place, but I wanted to do better. I trained harder and put more hours in. The next year I placed first in the District and once again, seventh in the Region. However, I set a new record of 10 foot. Our region for girls pole vault is very difficult, I went a whole foot higher and ended in the same spot. I used that frustration to better myself. I worked even harder. My junior year I advanced to Regionals again and placed fourth with a jump of 10’6! I tied my record and advanced to the State Meet in Columbus. My work had finally paid off. Unfortunately, I was not able to compete at state due to a foot fracture and torn tendon from practicing pole vault, but I will only use that disappointment to prepare myself for next year. I believe it is my hard work, dedication, and passion for the sport that will make me a successful collegiate athlete.