Christopher Smith, Urbana, IL

What is your proposed G Movement athletic challenge?

I am a pole vaulter training to compete on the international level. My G Movement Athletic Challenge is to jump a personal best of at least 5.50 meters (about 18 feet). In order to do this, I will train daily to perfect my technique, as well as build strength and speed to maximize my ability to do such.

I have been pole vaulting for over 13 years. On January 29, 2005, I jumped 5.41 meters (17-9). I took some time off to finish my Master’s Degree. After completing my degree, I began working part time and pole vaulting full time, in preparation for the 2008 Olympic Games. 1231 days later, I jumped 5.42 meters (17-9.5). That day I was 3 inches away from qualifying for the US Olympic Trials. After that, I suffered a few injuries that precluded me from surmounting 5.50 meters in 2009. This year I am healthy and progressing very well. And I am hopeful that I can clear well over 5.50 meters with a little extra motivation and support.

My training regimen is rigorous; it includes pole vaulting, plyometrics, strength training, gymnastics, running, sprints, etc. I have been training since September; however I will concentrate my efforts in December, January, and February to ensure the gains I am looking for by March 1st (the last day to qualify for Worlds). I will continue to update my progress at www.blog.jumpchrisjump.com.

Why do you think it is important to bring attention to the issues of global hunger? Why were you motivated to participate in G Movement?

Nutrition and hydration are the keys to success with such a strenuous schedule. At this point, I train at least 2 hours a day and I work 30-40 hours a week. If I miss one meal or come to a workout dehydrated it can be detrimental to the results of my workout. I have to be very cognizant about when and what I eat. Food is fuel. With that in mind, I cannot sit idly by while I know that there is food available for people worldwide, but there is not always access to that fuel.

There are so many people in the world and we all need fuel to live up to our full potential. I am from a single parent home and there were times when food was not readily available. And as a student in elementary school through high school, I was a part of free and reduced lunch programs. That assistance alone helped me grow into the athlete and person I am today. That’s why when I saw this opportunity to use my skills to help promote a fight against hunger worldwide, I was “all-in”. Even if I don’t achieve my athletics goals, I am devoted to raising the funds to make a difference in our world.

How would a $2,000 grant enable you to complete your challenge?

The $2,000 grant would allow me to spend a lot more money on my training (gear, travel to meets, food, poles, and everything else). As a post-collegiate athlete in track and field, there is money available, but there are a lot of great athletes competing for the same assistance. In the course of a season, I can spend well over $5,000 on training and travel, without any outside assistance or sponsorship. While it is awesome to be surrounded by so many great athletes, it makes getting to the next level and getting sponsored more challenging. Most people who know I pole vault “professionally” do not know I work 30-40 hours a week. Conversely, most of the people that interact with on a daily basis at work have no idea that they are interacting with a professional-caliber athlete.

Up to this point, most of my assistance has come directly from my own savings, donations from friends, family and local business. However, I cannot overlook the contributions and sacrifices that coaches, teammates, my community, and my peers have made to help me succeed. If it takes a village to raise a child it definitely takes the world to foster the growth of great athletes. I am very grateful for the contributions (of time and money) I have received in the past and the G Movement is a great way for me to give back.

Support My Challenge

With your support, I can help Action Against Hunger bring immediate relief and long-term solutions to starving children and families around the world.

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