World Record: 4.21m Charles Hoff, Norway Copenhagen (DEN) July 22, 1923
Olympic Record: 4.09 Frank Foss, United States Antwerp (BEL) August 20, 1920
The finalists qualified by clearing 3.66, but the world’s top vaulter
Charles Hoff (NOR) was missing, inhibited by a foot injury. He com-
peted only in the 400m and 800m. Ralph Spearow then became
favourite, but he had an off-day; in November he would clear 4.19 in
Japan.
Barnes won the gold medal in a jump-off with Graham, and was the
youngest-ever pole vault winner at 17. Graham’s son James made the
1956 Olympic team, but graciously handed his Olympic spot to Bob
Gutowski after being hobbled by an injury. Brooker ensured a clean
sweep for the USA after beating the excellent Petersen in a jump-off.
Qualification>- Wednesday, 9th July 14:00
Mark 3.66m. 7 Athletes passed the mak and advanced to Final.
United States
Denmark
Canada
Belgium
France
Brazil
Czechoslovakia
Great Britain
Greece
Netherlands
Finland
Estonia
Poland
