Nina Kennedy soars to Commonwealth Games gold in Birmingham

WAIS pole vaulter Nina Kennedy has soared and continued the proud WAIS pole vault legacy, winning gold at the 2022 Commonwealth Games.

The 25-year-old came to Birmingham as the favourite, having won bronze at the World Championships two weeks ago. She entered the competition at 4.35 and easily cleared her opening height, and quickly flew over 4.45 as well.

With the field whittled down to four Kennedy passed at the next height of 4.50 and with the rest of the field unable to clear 4.50, the competition was all Kennedy’s.

She soared further with a second attempt clearance at 4.60 the gold was secured, improving on her bronze from 2018.

“More of a relief, it was definitely mine to lose, so I kind of kept my cool and I am so happy with the gold,” Kennedy told Channel 7.

“This was to kind of make my friends and my family and my support team proud. It was definitely for them. I’m so happy I did.”

After a brief celebration with WAIS Head Coach Paul Burgess, Kennedy’s mind quickly returned to the runway as she raised the bar to 4.76m, chasing a new Games Record.

With wind wreaking havoc at Alexander Stadium, and the crowd behind her, Kennedy lined up eyeing further glory. Missing her first two attempts and with no respite from the wind in sight, Kennedy called it a day content with her gold.

Beginning her celebrations with her parents, Burgess, WAIS Biomechanist Aaron Balloch and training partners Kurtis Marschall and Angus Armstong in the crowd.