Five reasons you should come to Clovis

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http://www.fresnobee.com/sports/story/1 ... 6669c.html

North American Pole Vault Championships

By Ken Robison / The Fresno Bee

(Updated Wednesday, August 2, 2006, 4:40 AM)

Dare we use the F-word?

Flying, that is. Fine-tuned athletes soaring toward the clouds, over a bar set unreasonably high, and then back down to earth ... all the while being surrounded by cheering crowds.It's time once again for the North American Pole Vault Championships in downtown Clovis. The annual event begins 5:30 p.m. Friday on Pollasky Avenue amid the Clovis Farmer's Market.

Why should you go? Here are five reasons, all starting in F.

FRALEY

Fresno State coach Bob Fraley has been called the P.T. Barnum of track and field. Fraley is one of the few track and field promoters in the United States who understands the need to put on a show, and his Clovis "Pole-a-palooza" draws thousands of fans annually.

FLYING

How high can they go?

How about 18 feet, 91/2 inches by U.S. Olympian Nick Hysong in 1998. Or 2001, when U.S. Olympian Mel Mueller went 15-13/4 â€â€