New Zealand Pole Vaulter McCartney Takes 2nd in Paris

Former Olympic bronze medallist Eliza McCartney is flying high again, claiming second place at the Diamond League meet in Paris with an impressive 4.70-meter vault.

The New Zealand athlete cleared the bar just behind Swiss winner Angelica Moser's 4.77m, beating Australian rival Nina Kennedy on a countback. McCartney's performance marks another strong showing in her return to elite form after clearing 4.81m earlier this year.

The Paris competition became a showcase for Kiwi talent when all three New Zealand pole vaulters landed top eight finishes. Imogen Ayris placed seventh while Olivia McTaggart finished eighth, giving the nation a triple threat heading into the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

Ayris had set a career best of 4.81m just weeks earlier but struggled in Paris, needing all three attempts to clear 4.60m before missing at 4.70m. McTaggart sailed smoothly through the early heights before falling short at 4.60m.

The timing couldn't be better for the Commonwealth Games-bound athletes, who have less than four weeks to fine-tune their form. McCartney's consistent podium finishes this season signal she's ready to compete for gold in Glasgow.

Why This Inspires

McCartney's journey back to the international podium shows what persistence looks like in action. After winning Olympic bronze in 2016, she's rebuilt her career through patience and determination, proving that comebacks are possible when you keep reaching for the next height.

Her second-place finish wasn't just a personal victory. Three New Zealand pole vaulters competing at the elite level demonstrates the strength of the country's athletics program and inspires the next generation of young athletes watching from home.

The Commonwealth Games will test whether McCartney can convert her Diamond League success into another major championship medal. Based on her Paris performance, she's ready for the challenge.