Muskegon, Michigan–Track and field is different from other sports in that competitors stand face-to-face, toe-to-toe and wish the entire field, with complete sincerity, “Good luck.”And then they run their tails off trying to beat each other.They understand that the better their competitors run, the better they run.And the pole-vault exemplifies that notion more than any other track event. Exhibit A: North Muskegon senior pole-vaulter Jake Walton.“Pole-vaulters in general help each other,” explained Norse track coach Douglas Clark. “(Jake) gives his competition advice on form and truly wants to see them clear higher heights.”That explains why it was no big deal when Walton sought vaulting advice from Orchard View’s Len Burrington, an area authority on the fascinating and sometimes dangerous event.“(Fellow North Muskegon track coach) Al Karaba and I encouraged him from day one, seek other advice,” said Clark.“(Burrington’s) help his been big,” said Walton. “Plus, he lends me poles.”Indeed, poles are another way pole-vaulting is different from other events.But before we go there, let’s learn a little bit more about Mr. Walton. more
