Athletes were soaring over Pollasky Avenue in Old Town Clovis Friday evening as thousands of fans looked on with admiration.
"I enjoy it. Former vaulter so I like to see how high they can go," said Steve Poindexter, a spectator.
Close three dozen athletes competed. Some are just hitting their stride, while others have captured medals at past Olympic Games.
The North American Pole Vaulting Championships is a competitive event, but is primarily focused on fun.
"It’s something you don’t normally see outside of the stadium and we’re here to bring it to the fans. We feel it’s a real exciting event," said Brian Yokoyama, Co-Director.
Mallory Gilbert, a Clovis High graduate and last year’s W.A.C. female athlete of the year at the University of Hawaii, feeds off this different atmosphere.
"We’re not used to seeing people up close to the runway, but usually it energizes us more and gets us running faster," said Mallory Gilbert, a pole vaulter.
The event drew participants from high schools in New Orleans, Reno, San Diego, Los Angeles, Clovis and Hanford.
Scott Greenman, another Clovis High grad, calls this a tune up before heading off to college in South Dakota.
"I’m just here for the experience and the crowd. I want to promote pole vaulting, inspire some kids and have fun," said Scott Greenman, a pole vaulter.
April Steiner-Bennett, a 2008 Olympian, was part of the elite division. She used this opportunity to mentor some of the up and comers who have high hopes of making it big.
"It takes a lot of discipline, but you still have to have fun. Smile, have a good time and enjoy the process," said April Steiner-Bennett, former Olympic pole vaulter.