World pole vault champ Walker eyes Bubka's world record

0 Comments | AFP, June, 2008

EUGENE, Oregon (AFP) — Reigning world champion Brad Walker led qualifying Friday for the US Olympic Track and Field Trials pole vault final, where he might make his next attack upon Sergey Bubka's world record.

Walker, whose American record clearance of 6.04 meters here at the Prefontaine Classic three weeks ago was a 2008 world best, led qualifiers for Sunday's final by clearing 5.60m.

In his earlier victory at Hayward Field, Walker failed in three attempts to clear 6.16 and break the world record of 6.14 set by Ukraine star Bubka in 1994 at Sestriere. He would not mind having another chance at the height on Sunday.

"I don't think I've given 6.16 the kind of look I can give it," Walker said. "Ten centimeters isn't that much. If I'm on the right pole doing...