John Uelses
American pole vaulter (1937–2022)
John Hans Uelses (born Hans Joachim Feigenbaum; July 14, 1937 – December 15, 2022) was an American pole vaulter. He made history by becoming the first man to vault over 16 feet – on February 2, 1962, at the Millrose Games in New York's Madison Square Garden, before a sold-out crowd, Uelses soared over the bar at 16' 1/4", making headlines around the world.
At the Boston Games, he broke his own indoor record, clearing the bar at 16' 3/4." His record-breaking jump in Madison Square Garden was upheld and both records stood. In the spring, the Marine Corps approved his travel to compete at the outdoor meet at Santa Barbara Relays in California. Uelses set a new world outdoor record at 16' 3/4". He would go on to achieve many more.
Early life
Uelses was born Hans Joachim Feigenbaum in Berlin, Germany. He spent most of his early years as a refugee escaping from World War II with his mother, sister, and brother. His father was killed in Russia and the family ended up on the border of Denmark and Germany. Life was difficult for refugees in war-torn Europe and at 12, Uelses was sent to live with a great-aunt and uncle in Miami, Florida.
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