Rudy vaults for Olympic berth

[rainbowgirl28]

http://www.greatfallstribune.com/apps/p ... /807010315

Rudy vaults for Olympic berth
JULY 1, 2008

BOZEMAN (AP) — Two-time NCAA national indoor pole vault champion Ellie Rudy is preparing for the biggest meet of her career.



The Montana State athlete is scheduled to compete Tuesday in the preliminaries at the U.S. Olympic Trials in Eugene, Ore.

Rudy redshirted the outdoor season this spring to give her wrists time to heal and to change her technique to lessen the pressure on her wrists.

Her wrists used to fall away from her body. Now, by tucking them in closer, the idea is to let the pole do more of the work.

"It's not something new, it's something better," said coach Tom Eitel.

Rudy's best effort in indoor competition is 14 feet, 1.25 inches — the height at which she won both NCAA titles. Her outdoors best is 14-2.5.

Rudy says she believes with the changes she's made, she should be able to clear 15 feet — a height she believes could be good enough to make the top three and earn a spot on the Olympic team.

"I already have the pride for the country, but it would be just awesome to be able to represent them," she said. "I don't know if I feel qualified to represent our country, but we want the best going there, and if I end up being one of the best, I would take it.

The Trials field includes U.S. record holder Jenn Stuczynski, who has cleared 16 feet, 3/4 inch. Melinda Owen of Polson is also scheduled to compete.