Kennedy Fifth in Youth World Champs Final

WA Institute of Sport pole vaulter Nina Kennedy has finished fifth in the girl’s final at the 2013 IAAF World Youth Championships in Donetsk, Ukraine.

Kennedy was one of two WAIS athletes representing Australia at the Championships, with fellow vaulter Emma Philippe also making her Youth Champs debut. Philippe competed well, but was unable to qualify for the final.

WAIS has a proud tradition at the Youth World Championships, with Vicky Parnov setting a competition record of 4.35m in 2007.

Coached by Parnov’s father Alex Parnov, Nina Kennedy entered the final at 3.95m, initially struggling before clearing on the second attempt. The bar was then raised to 4.05m, which Kennedy cleared at her third attempt.

As the competition heated up, the bar was elevated to 4.15m with Kenenedy in fifth place. Despite a solid effort, she was unable to negotiate the height, with the gold medal eventually won by Venezuelan competitor Robeilys Peinado at 4.25m.

Attention now turns to the IPC Athletics World Championships in Lyon, France – with two WAIS athletes set to compete in the French second city.

Competition commences this weekend, with Madison de Rozario contesting the women’s T53 wheelchair racing events, whilst dual London Paralympic medallist Brad Scott will contest the men’s T37 800m.

For more information on the 2013 IPC Athletics World Championships, including athlete profiles, meet information and regular news updates, please follow this link to the IPC Athletics World Championships sub-site at athletics.com.au.

Alternatively, to view complete entry lists and live results during the Championships please follow this link to the home page for the 2013 IPC Athletics World Championships as part of paralympic.org.