Sophomore Tralynn White made Cordell Blue Devils history by becoming the program’s first pole vaulter at the Velma-Alma Invitational on Thursday, March 12.
White placed second in the event, marking the first time a Cordell athlete has competed in pole vaulting.
Coach Love praised White’s effort and willingness to take on the challenging event.
“I’m really proud of Tralynn for placing 2nd in pole vault at Velma-Alma. We added pole vault this year, hoping to score points in more events, and she stepped up and did exactly that. To my knowledge, she’s the first pole vaulter in Cordell track history. Pole vault is probably the most skilled event in track, and it takes speed, strength, fearlessness, and someone who is coachable. Tralynn has all those qualities, and I knew she could be a good vaulter. Her points helped our girls finish 2nd as a team.”
White said learning the new event has been both challenging and rewarding.
“Well, learning this new sport has been very frustrating, but exciting! It is very technical; every small detail matters. The most challenging thing I have to say is being patient with the outcome. Progress doesn’t happen instantly; it takes time. (That’s also something Coach Love tells me when I get mad at myself.) Pole vault has taught me to be patient with myself.”
Even though the learning curve was steep, White felt proud of her first meet performance.
“I was really happy getting second at my first meet vaulting. I know I am capable of doing better, but I am very grateful for all the support. I’m also really thankful for Coach Love for pushing me to try pole vault in the first place and believing in me even before I believed in myself. Having that kind of support has made a big difference and motivates me to keep improving.”
The Cordell track and field team will return to action on Tuesday, March 24.