Pole vaulting is not easy as it looks. You have to have a bunch of upper body strength. My first time pole vaulting was in 8th grade. That was last year. I got second in region and second at state. I was happy when I got my ribbon. This year I got second at region and 5th at state. I had a back injury in August so I couldn't work out as much as I used too. I am glad I am going to state for the second time. I am happy because I am only in 9th grade.