SYDNEY, Nova Scotia, Canada — Leland Murphy has taken his early pole vaulting career to heights no one could have predicted. The Grade 10 student at Cape Breton Highlands Education Centre just picked up the sport last year when a provincial guru offered a weekend course. On Friday he bested every other competitor in the intermediate category at the Nova Scotia Schools Athletic Federation championship to claim the provincial pole vaulting title. “It feels good,” Murphy said, moments after becoming a provincial champion at the Cape Breton Sport Health Recreation Complex. “I feel very excited just to finish better than you thought you could and knowing you overcame what you did before.” Throughout the hour-long competition, Murphy, who finished third at the provincials last year, easily cleared the required heights leading to his title-winning finish of 2.9 meters. All along the way, the Margaree native carried a relaxed demeanor while watching his competition and waiting his turn. “I love the sport. There’s no nerves involved in it. They tell you the height and give you two minutes to jump. It’s very laid-back and fun.” more
