Anicka Newell

### The Soaring Career of Anicka Newell: A Track and Field Star

In the world of track and field, few athletes have demonstrated the resilience, determination, and sheer talent of Anicka Newell. Born on August 5, 1993, in Denton, Texas, Newell has carved out a remarkable career as a pole vaulter, earning her a spot in three consecutive Olympic Games. This article delves into her journey, highlighting her achievements, personal bests, and the mental and physical challenges she has overcome to become one of Canada’s most celebrated athletes.

#### Early Beginnings and Transition to Pole Vaulting

Anicka Newell’s athletic journey began in gymnastics, a sport she loved for its thrill and technical complexity. However, a back injury in gymnastics led her to discover pole vaulting at the age of 16. This transition proved to be a turning point in her career, as she found a new passion and a way to channel her energy into soaring heights.

#### Collegiate Success at Texas State University

Newell’s collegiate career at Texas State University was marked by significant milestones. She earned an honorable mention All-America award in the pole vault at the 2015 NCAA Division I Outdoor Track and Field Championships. During her time at Texas State, Newell won two Sun Belt Conference Outdoor titles in pole vault and consistently improved her personal bests. Her junior year was particularly pivotal, as she broke the 13-foot mark for the first time and won her first Sun Belt Conference Outdoor title. This success instilled in her a belief that she could become a great pole vaulter, setting her sights on even higher achievements[3][5].

#### Olympic Debut and Subsequent Appearances

Newell’s first Olympic appearance was at the 2016 Rio Olympics, where she cleared 4.15 meters in the qualifying rounds but failed to advance to the finals. Despite this initial setback, she used the experience as a learning curve, focusing on mental preparation and toughness. Her determination paid off as she qualified for the 2017 IAAF World Championships, where she finished 12th with a vault of 4.45 meters[1][3].

In 2020, Newell made her second Olympic appearance at the Tokyo Olympics. She had a remarkable qualifying round, clearing 4.55 meters to tie for first place. However, she received no mark in the finals due to unsuccessful attempts[1][3]. This experience further honed her mental resilience and strategic approach to competitions.

#### Recent Achievements and Paris 2024

Newell’s journey towards the 2024 Paris Olympics has been marked by significant personal bests and strategic planning. In 2021, she achieved a new personal best of 4.70 meters, which also met the Olympic qualifying standard. This breakthrough performance not only secured her spot in the Paris Olympics but also demonstrated her ability to overcome physical and mental challenges[1][5].

At the 2023 World Championships, Newell finished 24th with a vault of 4.35 meters. Her performance at the 2022 World Championships was more promising, where she qualified for the finals and finished 9th overall with a vault of 4.52 meters[1]. Her recent success at the Canadian Olympic Trials, where she placed second in the pole vault, has solidified her position as one of Canada’s top pole vaulters.

#### Mental Preparation and Mindset

Anicka Newell’s success extends beyond her physical prowess; it is deeply rooted in her mental preparation and mindset. In an interview with the Pro Mindset Podcast, she emphasized the importance of enjoying the process and celebrating small wins. She discussed how overcoming fear and trusting in one’s abilities are crucial for success in pole vaulting[4]. Newell’s approach to mental preparation involves reframing her story, setting high standards, and creating a performance bubble to eliminate distractions and doubts.

#### Impact on Track and Field

Anicka Newell’s impact on track and field extends beyond her personal achievements. She has inspired a new generation of athletes with her determination and resilience. As a collegiate star at Texas State University, she showcased the talent that can be produced by the school’s track and field program. Her participation in three Olympic Games has given Texas State a significant platform to showcase its athletic prowess[2][5].

#### Conclusion

Anicka Newell’s journey from a gymnast to a world-class pole vaulter is a testament to her unwavering dedication and resilience. Her achievements in three consecutive Olympic Games are a remarkable feat, and her personal bests continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in the sport. As she prepares for the 2024 Paris Olympics, Newell remains focused on her next goal: breaking the Canadian record in pole vaulting. Her story serves as an inspiration to athletes everywhere, highlighting the importance of mental preparation, strategic planning, and enjoying the process of achieving greatness.

### Personal Bests and Yearly Results

– **2021:** 4.70 meters (15 feet 5 inches)
– **2020:** 4.56 meters (15 feet 0 inches)
– **2019:** 4.46 meters (14 feet 8 inches)
– **2018:** 4.60 meters (15 feet 1 inch)
– **2017:** 4.65 meters (15 feet 3 inches)
– **2016:** 4.50 meters (14 feet 9 inches)
– **2015:** 4.28 meters (14 feet 1 inch)
– **2014:** 3.97 meters (13 feet 0 inches)
– **2013:** 3.75 meters (12 feet 4 inches)
– **2012:** 3.65 meters (12 feet 0 inches)
– **2011:** 3.25 meters (10 feet 8 inches)
– **2010:** 3.66 meters (12 feet 0 inches)
– **2009:** 2.98 meters (9 feet 9 inches)[3]

### Quotes from Anicka Newell

– “The Olympic experience as a whole is very surreal. Having the uniform with your flag and country across your chest is such a huge deal, I still do not have words for it.”[2]
– “I wouldn’t be where I am at today without having gone to Texas State to compete and going through their program with the coaches I had.”[2]
– “I’m coming for that Canadian record, that’s the next height. I have a long way to go this year, we just need to continue progressing. Getting better, getting stronger, both mentally and physically.”[1]

Anicka Newell’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and determination in the world of track and field. As she continues to soar to new heights, her legacy as one of Canada’s most accomplished pole vaulters will only continue to grow.

Go Anicka!