Lawrence Johnson, American pole vaulter
Lawrence Johnson – better known in the track and field world as “LoJo” – is a highly accomplished American pole vaulter born on May 7, 1974, in Norfolk, Virginia. He emerged as a dominant force in the sport during the 1990s and early 2000s, building a career that helped revitalize American pole vaulting on the international stage.
LoJo began pole vaulting in 1989 and quickly rose through the ranks with a powerful combination of athletic prowess and technical skill. While competing for the University of Tennessee, he earned his signature nickname “LoJo” and captured four NCAA titles in the pole vault – achievements that laid the foundation for his future success. During his collegiate career, he also amassed seven Southeastern Conference (SEC) championships and helped strengthen the reputation of American collegiate vaulting globally.
Beyond the college circuit, Johnson's impact was felt on the world stage. He represented the United States in two Olympic Games, earning a silver medal at the 2000 Sydney Olympics with a standout performance that made him the first Black pole vaulter to medal in Olympic history. He had previously made the Olympic team in 1996, becoming the first Black vaulter ever to qualify for Team USA in the event. His achievements marked a pivotal moment in the sport’s history concerning inclusivity and representation.
LoJo’s international accomplishments include a gold medal at the 2001 IAAF World Indoor Championships and a silver medal at the 1997 World Indoors in Paris. Notably, his 1997 silver made him the first American male pole vaulter since 1987 to bring home a medal from a major international championship––highlighting a resurgence in U.S. dominance in the event.
On March 3, 2001, Johnson set the American indoor record with a vault of 5.96 meters (19 feet, 6.5 inches), which still stands. His outdoor personal best is 5.98 meters (19 feet, 7.5 inches), achieved in 1996, solidifying him as one of the highest vaulters in U.S. history. Many of his performances still serve as benchmarks, as he holds multiple stadium, meet, and collegiate records.
Throughout his career, he earned an impressive array of honors:
- 2× High School National Champion
- 7× Southeastern Conference (SEC) Champion
- 4× NCAA Champion
- 7× USA Outdoor Track & Field Champion
- IAAF World Indoor Champion (2001)
- Olympic Silver Medalist (2000)
In August 2011, Johnson stepped down from his role as Assistant Coach and Pole Vault Specialist at the University of South Carolina to pursue an entrepreneurial path, launching his own online business, continuing his influence in the sport through education and outreach.
Lawrence Johnson remains a pioneering figure in American track and field. Both as a groundbreaking Black pole vaulter and one of the sport’s most decorated athletes, his legacy is not only defined by titles and records but also by his role in transforming the landscape of pole vaulting in the U.S. and encouraging diversity in the event.
What is Lawrence Johnson best known for?
Lawrence Johnson is best known for winning a silver medal at the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney and setting the American indoor record in the pole vault.
What records does Lawrence Johnson hold?
He holds the American indoor pole vault record at 5.96m (19' 6.5") and still maintains several collegiate and meet records.
What makes Lawrence Johnson a trailblazer in the sport?
Johnson was the first Black pole vaulter to make the U.S. Olympic team, medal at the Olympic Games, and win a medal in a major international competition.
What are some of his career highlights?
- Olympic Silver Medal (2000)
- World Indoor Champion (2001)
- NCAA and SEC multiple-title winner
- Holder of U.S. indoor record
- Over a decade of dominance at national and international levels
With these accomplishments, Lawrence “LoJo” Johnson remains a seminal figure in American athletics, whose influence extends well beyond the runway.