Shawnacy Barber credits dad for love of pole vault

Published by Lori Ewing/The Canadian Press Posted: Jun 09, 2015 4:37 PM ET

When George Barber coached track at New Mexico State University, he would bring along his two young sons Shawnacy and Braden. They'd dig in the long jump pit, letting the sand run through their stubby fingers, or bounce on the high jump mat.

When the boys grew old enough to roam unattended on the family farm, Barber sawed down a couple of poles that the kids would use to launch themselves — pole vault style — over the irrigation ditches on the property.

"If there was a couple feet of water in the bottom, the goal was to not hit the water," Shawnacy said.

It was a childhood full of adventure and exploration, one Shawnacy wouldn't trade for anything as he continues his swift climb up the world pole vault rankings.