Any known accidents with pole vaulting?

Question

I always wonder how pole vaulters can avoid falling on the pole after they jump. Or are there any known accidents. Must hurt a lot when you fall on that thing.

Answer 1

many states have outlawed pole vaulting at the high school level due to the danger. I've seen a couple broken bones due to snapped poles or people missing the landing pad. People have even died or become paralyzed by landing on their necks incorrectly. It can be dangerous, just like any sport, but with proper training and coaching, you can minimize it.

I would wear a helmet, too.

Answer 2

I have seen a few in my day. Mostly because the pole snapped. This either put the vaulter right on his back on the runway or threw their trajectory off and was thrown into the side poles holding the cross bar.

Answer 3

couple of olympics ago saw a bloke almost trn himself into an icypole