May 29, 1976

Earl Holmes Bell, who was to become one of the most renowned U.S. men’s pole vaulters and coaches, set a world’s record for men’s pole vault at the United States Field Federation meet in Wichita, Kansas, with a jump of 5.67 meters (18 feet, 7.25 inches). Bell was a three-time Olympic participant, winner of an Olympic bronze medal, and Olympic Coach of the Year in 2002. Bell founded and operates Bell Athletics in Jonesboro (Craighead County), which is considered one of the top training facilities for athletes and young people. It has trained many of the United States’ Olympic team members.