University of South Dakota commit Chris Nilsen set the American high school record in the pole vault Saturday at the Missouri Class 5 sectional meet. 

Nilsen (NILL-sen), competing for Park Hill High School, cleared 18 feet, 4 ¾ inches, on his way to the Class 5 title. He will contend for a second consecutive Missouri state title next weekend in Jefferson City. 

“We are incredibly excited for Chris,” said Associate Director of Track and Field Derek Miles. “More importantly than him jumping the American record, he has the physical attributes you look for in an elite pole vaulter. Chris has the personality, mindset, motivation and commitment all wrapped up to allow him to hit these heights at a young age. If he continues to do that over the next four years, he will easily be at the top of the NCAA.” 

Nilsen’s vault not only broke the previous national record of 18-3 ½, but currently ranks 14th in the country. South Dakota senior Emily Grove ranks 14th on the women’s side with her vault of 14-9 ½. The top 24 vaulters in the nation qualify for the U.S. Olympic Trials held July 1-10 in Eugene, Ore.