Bill Graber, American pole vaulter (d. 1996)

William Noe Graber: An Illustrious American Pole Vaulter and World Record Holder

William Noe Graber, born on January 21, 1911, and passing on March 8, 1996, was a distinguished American athlete renowned for his prowess in pole vaulting. His career highlights include setting a new world record and representing the United States in two Olympic Games, solidifying his place in the annals of track and field history.

Achieving Pole Vault Excellence: The 1932 World Record

Graber cemented his legacy in the sport on July 16, 1932, when he broke the existing pole vault world record. Competing in Palo Alto, California, he cleared an extraordinary height of 4.37 meters (equivalent to 14 feet 4 inches). This remarkable feat not only showcased his exceptional skill but also underscored the advancements being made in pole vaulting techniques and athletic capabilities during an era when bamboo poles were the standard equipment, demanding immense precision and strength from vaulters.

Olympic Appearances: Los Angeles 1932 and Berlin 1936

Following his record-breaking performance, William Graber was a key figure for the U.S. Olympic team. He competed in two consecutive Olympic Games, demonstrating sustained excellence on the global stage:

• 1932 Los Angeles Olympics: As a strong contender after his world record, Graber participated in the pole vault event at the X Olympiad held in his home country. He delivered a commendable performance, securing a fourth-place finish by clearing 4.15 meters. Although he had previously cleared a higher mark for his world record, competitive Olympic conditions and specific event strategies often lead to varied outcomes. The gold medal in Los Angeles was won with a height of 4.315 meters.
• 1936 Berlin Olympics: Four years later, Graber once again represented the United States at the XI Olympiad in Berlin, Germany. He continued to perform at an elite level, finishing fifth in the pole vault competition. At these games, the winning height was 4.35 meters, while Graber successfully cleared 4.25 meters, highlighting his consistent competitive spirit among the world's best vaulters even as the sport continued its evolution.

Legacy and Impact

William Noe Graber's contributions to American track and field, particularly in pole vaulting, are significant. His world record achievement in 1932 was a testament to his athletic peak, and his consistent top-five finishes across two Olympic Games underscored his enduring skill and competitive drive. His career spanned a pivotal period in pole vaulting, bridging eras and setting benchmarks for future generations of athletes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about William Noe Graber

Who was William Noe Graber?

William Noe Graber was a notable American pole vaulter who achieved a world record and competed in the Olympic Games during the 1930s.

When did William Graber set his pole vault world record?

William Graber broke the pole vault world record on July 16, 1932, in Palo Alto, California.

What was William Graber's pole vault world record height?

His world record height was 4.37 meters (14 feet 4 inches).

How did William Graber perform at the 1932 Los Angeles Olympics?

At the 1932 Los Angeles Olympics, William Graber placed fourth in the pole vault event, clearing 4.15 meters.

Did William Graber compete in the 1936 Berlin Olympics?

Yes, William Graber competed in the 1936 Berlin Olympics, where he finished fifth in the pole vault, clearing 4.25 meters.

What materials were pole vault poles typically made from during Graber's era?

During William Graber's active years in the 1930s, pole vaulters primarily used poles made from bamboo, before the later introduction of more flexible materials like steel, aluminum, and eventually fiberglass.