Nina Kennedy claims first Diamond League win in Monaco

WAIS pole vaulter Nina Kennedy has continued a stellar month and claimed her first Diamond League victory in Monaco.

The Australian Record Holder who is having a career best season, won bronze at the World Championships in July and Commonwealth Games gold last week.

Coming in as one of the favourites, Kennedy cleared the opening height of 4.36 metres with ease. She took two attempts at 4.51m before soaring over 4.66 metres to take the lead. As the only athlete with a first attempt clearance the pressure was on 2022 World Championship silver medallist Sandi Morris and 2016 Olympic Champion Katerini Stefanidi to clear 4.76.

With Morris and Stefandini unable to clear the height, Kennedy took take the win and with it important Diamond League qualifying points. She now sits fourth with one round to go and is within reach of qualifying for the final in Zurich in September.

“It was my first time in Monaco so I’m really happy! There were very nice conditions, the weather was amazing the sunset was beautiful, so it´s a really good night,” said Kennedy.

“I just came here to win and I’m happy I’ve executed it. I really want to gain more confidence, I know I’m a good jumper but I want to show myself on the world stage so it came first in Eugene it was amazing and I’m excited for the rest of the season.

“I would love to win the Dimond League Final it is one of my main goals for the rest of the season so fingers crossed!”

Photo: Chiara Montesan / Wanda Diamond League