South Dakota’s Stellar Pole Vaulting Performance at Drake Relays
By: Bailey Zubke, Assistant Director of Communications
South Dakota, known for its rich agricultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes, is quickly making a name for itself in the realm of collegiate athletics, particularly track and field. The University of South Dakota (USD) pole vault program has catapulted to national attention following an impressive display of talent and skill at the recent Drake Relays held in Sioux Falls, S.D.
The weekend marked a monumental achievement as the South Dakota pole vault athletes set seven outdoor personal records during the event. This extraordinary feat references not only the dedication of the athletes but also the expertise of their coaching staff. Among the notable performers, Anna Willis and Caelan Harland emerged as sensational exemplars of talent and hard work.
Anna Willis, a name now etched in the annals of USD athletics, not only pushed the boundaries but also shattered previous records at the Drake Relays. Her pole vault clearance of 15-2 ¼ (4.63m) set a new school and Drake Relays record, toppling the former mark of 14-4 set in 2024 and the USD outdoor program record of 15-1, held by Emily Grove.
Willis, a two-time All-American and the USA U20 Champion from last summer, currently ranks second in the NCAA and fourth in the world for the outdoor season. Her ascending trajectory in the sport is a testament to her resilience and marks her as a key figure in not only USD athletics but also in collegiate pole vaulting on a broader scale.
Anna Willis
Meanwhile, Caelan Harland, a freshman making waves, marked his Drake Relays debut by achieving a personal best clearance of 18-2 ¾, a jump that has seated him at fourth on the USD Outdoor Top 10 list. His performance not only signifies individual progress but also symbolizes the burgeoning prowess of the USD men’s pole vault team.
Harland is currently ranked 14th in the NCAA this season, a remarkable feat for a freshman, and sits first in the Summit League. His trajectory mirrors that of Chris Nilsen, a previous USD pole vault sensation, who swept the Summit League titles as a freshman in 2017. Harland is now poised to replicate this accomplishment by capturing the league outdoor title.
Caelan Harland
For South Dakota, these remarkable performances underscore a deep-rooted commitment to athletic excellence. The pole vault program’s success reflects the culture of hard work and dedication prevalent across the state. As a beacon of athletic prowess and educational dedication, USD continues to foster talent that not only competes but thrives on national levels.
The time and effort put in by both Willis and Harland have not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by their reception of the Kwik Star Summit League Outdoor Field Peak Performer of the Week honors. Such accolades point to a promising future, not just for the athletes, but for the entire USD track and field team.
Skilled coaches, motivated athletes, and an unwavering spirit collectively foster an environment of success at USD, reinforcing the state’s tradition of nurturing impressive athletic talent. The pole vault stars carry forth the pride of a state that supports their journey toward greatness, a journey closely followed by the local and national community alike.
Looking forward, the future of South Dakota sports continues to be promising, with a growing roster of athletes poised to excel and inspire. As demonstrated through impressive performances and the breaking of records, the story of Anna Willis, Caelan Harland, and their fellow athletes is one of perseverance and triumph.
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