New Jersey –Trevor Knowles, in the shadows last year while his teammate flourished, continued to shine in the spotlight this season when he put on a great show in the pole vault at the NJSIAA Group 4 Track and Field Championships this past Monday at the Bennett Center in Toms River.
Knowles, a senior at North Hunterdon, came in at 13-6 and cleared that height, 14-0, and 14-6 all on his first attempt to clinch the first state title of his career. After winning the state title at 14-6, Knowles took three unsuccessful tries at 15-0 ¼ in an attempt to break the meet record.Knowles was obviously ecstatic with his performance as he outdueled Skyland Conference rival Alexander Kossak of Hunterdon Central, second at 14-0.
“It’s a great feeling to win a state title, especially coming from such a hard group like Group 4,” said the Lehigh-bound Knowles. “I knew I had the ability to do it, and I jumped really well.
Last year, Erik Adamcik, who was second indoors and outdoors last year in the Group 4 pole vault, was the top vaulter for North Hunterdon before graduating last spring. Adamcik is now competing at Rider University.
“I was kind of in the shadows of my vaulting partner Adamcik last year, so I’m glad that I can come up and take some first place medals this year ,” said Knowles, who also won the pole vault at the North Jersey, Section 2 meet.
The state title for Knowles adds to a very impressive resume that he has put together this season.
Last month Knowles cleared a personal best and school indoor record 14-9, tied for No. 4 in the state this season, at the East Stroudsburg Warrior Classic.
Knowles now has his sights set on 15-0.
“It is definitely not out of reach,” said Knowles, who also has his eye on the school outdoor record of 15-3. “Hopefully it’s just a matter of time.”
Knowles has three more shots at 15-0 this indoor season. He will be back in action at the Eastern Championships in New York this Monday. Then it’s on to the Meet of Champions on March 1, and then he will conclude his indoor season at the New Balance Nationals in New York (March 14-16).
