Posted by ESSX on April 07, 2002 at 19:14:57:
I hear everyday complaints about pole rating, now they are saying this is causing the accidents. to the contrary!!!!!!!
Please understand if you are holding more than a foot down you need to go to
the next lower pole 6" less in order for the pole to fit properly and enable
the athlete to use the optimum amount of energy stored in the pole.
I am sorry it is difficult for me to see where the pole is a problem when the
concrete and asphalt are hanging out the sides and backs of these pits.
Second one of the most recent deaths occurred around the box area where
athletes are allowed to move the pit back 14" if you do this you end up with
14" of more unyielding hard surface that does need to be padded. The rule
says that you need too and the poles and pit warning say you need too. SO
why are those getting hurt when you are supposed to cover these area?
Yes, I have heard the pole rating blamed and the thickness of the pits
blamed.
Hey if you are on a too soft of pole you will blow out the back, so the pole
rating rules reduces that problem!
PITS NOT THICK ENOUGH??????
Someone does not understand the mechanics of PV & HJ systems, it is not just foam there people there are other things helping you for a safe, comfortable landing!!!
PV Pits are the same size as HJ pits, Yes, they are because the construction
of the systems allows for the air to expel at different rates based on the
height falling and the size of the jumper., the pits decelerate the fall
base initial compression of the foam and the air forced out of the lattice,
waffle ,or honeycomb construction. As the athlete compresses the foam the
system increases the density of the foam, which decreases the penetration
into the landing system. If we did not do this you would have to have a pit
for each height you jumped.
Coaches need to be more aware of the rules. Some out there have not read
the NFHS rulebook.
The reason most are getting hurt in competiton, is they
go to facilities that are not as safe as the one they train at all week.
We need to educated and inform all meet promoters, coaches, athletes, and
officials to these unsafe practices in order to save the athletes.
A lot of schools have already reduced their risk by buying and using safe
facilities; they should not be punished because one school fails to follow
the rules.
The NFHS, and manufacturers provide common sense guidelines that need to be
used.
BAN THE POLE VAULT Ok if your a coach who does not understand, then we need you to cease the event for your school. Especially If you do not know what is necessary to protect your athletes.
Bruce Caldwell
President and CEO
ESSXsport Corp