Paris 2024 will be recorded as one of the most successful Olympics in Canada’s history, and the successes of new names like Alysha Newman in games such as the pole vault are a testament to Canada’s growing success on the world stage.
Not many people expected Alysa Newman to qualify for the finals when she arrived in Paris, but not only did she qualify, but she also took home the bronze medal with her.
Alysha Newman is #TeamCanada first Olympic pole vault medallist in 112 years 👀🇨🇦
— Team Canada (@TeamCanada) August 7, 2024
📸: Darren Calabrese pic.twitter.com/Sww19MSrCG
She cleared 4.85m in the finals to set a new Canadian record and write her name in history books. The fact that there has never been a medal for Canada in the history of the women’s pole vault since their closest finish was 6th place in 2004 reveals just how important this bronze medal from Alysa Newman has been for the country.
The gold went to Aussie Nina Kenney, who was miles ahead with a 4.90m jump, while American Katie Moon took second position with a 4.85m jump, the same as Newman but with fewer failed attempts.
Controversial celebration of Newman at Paris 2024
Although Alysa Newman broke a streak of 112 years by earning a medal for Canada in the pole vault, her twerking celebration following the win has also caused controversy.
One BBC commentator said on air:
A BBC commentator said, “I’m not sure about that celebration.”
Since Newman is also a member of the social media platform OnlyFans, where adult content is shared, she has always been scrutinized because of her bold posts.
Despite the many objections and controversies surrounding her, she hasn’t let the opinions of others affect the way she has performed on the field. By winning the medal, Alysha Newman broke a 112-year drought of medals in pole vault for both women and men, the last time being back in 1912.
Alysha Newman’s medal is the third medal for Canada in athletics after Ethan Katzberg‘s gold in the hammer throw and Camryn Rogers’ gold in the hammer throw. Considering that the Canadian government has invested the most in athletics after the Tokyo Olympics, these results are certainly a positive response given that Canada has set its sights on establishing itself as a strong sporting nation at the forthcoming Olympics.
