http://www.pantagraph.com/articles/2006 ... 113948.txt
Pontiac's Hanson sets sight high in pole vault
By Randy Sharer
rsharer@pantagraph.com
CHARLESTON -- If Phil Hanson gets his way, today's Class AA pole vault final in the 112th state track and field meet will be insanely exciting.
"I just want some good weather and it will be crazy," said the Pontiac High School senior, who hopes to challenge the meet record of 17 feet, ½ inch set by Edwardsville's Darren McDonough at 1993.
Hanson, a Northern Iowa recruit, expects defending champion Jake Winder of Plainfield South to be with him as they climb through the heights at 16 feet and above.
"Me and Jake will both be going about 17 if we get good weather," Hanson said. "It will be awesome."
Hanson was among three Pantagraph area individuals and one relay to advance to today's finals, which begin at 11 a.m.
Hanson, who usually opens at 15-0, made 14-3 on his only attempt of the day with about 3 feet to spare.
"It was a good jump," he said. "I kind of stopped at the top. I knew I was over. I took it easy."
The only other time he opened below 15-0 this season was at 13-9 in the sectional. The danger of starting at "low" heights is coming down on the bar.
"You've got to stay relaxed and not get in a hurry just because it's a low height," he said.