Allison Stokke rekindles my interest in track and field…

Thanks to Bill Simmons (of ESPN fame) and my buddy Coach, I’ve been introduced to Allison Stokke, a California high school senior, pole vault extrordinaire. No, I have no interest in pole vaulting whatsoever, but take one look at this girl, and I think you’ll understand my willingness to get a better appreciation for it.

Now before you even think it, let me explain that Allison is 18 years old (barely), and is probably more mature than most of our readers (take that!). She recently committed to attend Cal-Berkeley to continue her track career and get an excellent education.

Even before Bill Simmons gave her a mention on his blog, Allison has been blowing up message boards all over the place. There are lots of pretty girls that run track all over the country, but how many of them were gymnasts for over 10 years, and has a body that any cheerleader would envy?

I’m 32 years old and married, so there’s no need to embarass myself more than I already have.

UPDATE: See how Allison stacks up against Jessica Simpson here…

Most images courtesy PoleVaultPower.com

Best of luck at Cal, Allison. Don’t break too many hearts.

Her MySpace fanclub…link

Allison being interviewed

Further, in an effort to salvage what’s left of my dignity and be a torchbearer for the plight of pole vaulters everywhere, I’ve posted some crazy videos of poles snapping mid-vault…