Pole Position

Andrew Sherwood - Thursday 5th 2012f July 2012


American-born pole-vaulter Jillian Schwartz will carry the hopes of a nation for more than one reason at the London Olympic Games later this month.

For while Israeli Olympic Committee officials hope Schwartz - who became an Israeli citizen in 2009 - will make it to the podium next month, a top-three finish would also represent a first Israeli female medalist.

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The 32-year-old was in action at last weekend's European Athletics Championships in Finland, and although finishing in 11th place, from a field of 12 competitors, only clearing 4.10m - well below her season best of 4.52m - she says she’s hoping to do her adapted country proud.

Having represented the US at the 2004 Games, she describes the moment she qualified for London, to represent Israel, as a "very special and very emotional moment."

She said: "Just the thought of marching under the Israeli flag at London is very moving. I have been given a chance to represent the State of Israel and I will do everything it takes to make the most of that."

And despite her American roots, she says: "I'm very deeply connected to Israel. As far as I am concerned, I'm an Israeli through and through." Bookmark and Share