The Ten Most Shocking Moments Of Nationals Weekend

Jun 21, 2016

Mondo No Heights, Chris Nilsen Clears Just 16-8.25 For Nationals Win

The last time that Chris Nilsen and Armand "Mondo" Duplantis met, they made history by becoming the first duo of prep vaulters to clear 18 feet in the same competition at the Great Southwest Classic in New Mexico.

Many pundits predicted Nilsen's national outdoor standard of 18-4.75 would go down when they met again for New Balance Nationals Outdoor in Greensboro, North Carolina, but the winds were not as favorable. Nilsen cleared just 16-8.25 for the win; Duplantis, a sophomore from Lafayette, Louisiana, and the national indoor record holder, no-heighted.

National Champion today! Was a really fun trip and great venue but the wind was just horrible!! 20mph head winds. Cleared opening height 16'9 and couldn't get much higher but still got the win! Met some great people and made a lot of friends and got some sick gear. Ready for US juniors and Olympic trials!! #polevault #gearwasthebestpart #justkidding #notreally

A photo posted by Chris Nilsen (@nilsenvault) on Jun 19, 2016 at 2:38pm PDT

Nilsen will compete again at the USATF Junior Nationals this weekend in Clovis, California, for a shot at making the IAAF World Juniors squad. He will also compete at the Olympic Trials in July.

Duplantis already qualified for the IAAF World Juniors, where he will represent Sweden. He intends to compete in a few other meets in Europe this summer.