New Zealand pole vaulter Eliza McCartney has finally added Commonwealth Games gold to her decorated career.
In challenging conditions at Glasgow’s Scotstoun Stadium, the 2016 Olympic bronze medallist edged Australia’s Nina Kennedy on countback in a tense final. Fellow Kiwi Imogen Ayris claimed bronze, matching her effort in Birmingham four years ago.
McCartney and defending champion Kennedy both cleared 4.65m, but the New Zealander took the title after clearing the height at the first time of asking. Kennedy needed two attempts at 4.65m before both athletes were unable to clear 4.70m.
It is the first Commonwealth Games title for the 29-year-old, who won silver on the Gold Coast in 2018 and has spent much of the past decade battling chronic injuries.
In a competition made difficult by cold conditions and a troublesome crosswind, consistency proved decisive.
While neither McCartney nor Kennedy could find a clearance at 4.70m, McCartney’s cleaner card through the earlier heights ultimately made the difference.
Fellow Kiwi Imogen Ayris completed a memorable night for the team, claiming bronze with a clearance of 4.55m to bookend the medal placings for New Zealand.
Olivia McTaggart finished fourth after bowing out at 4.30m.
The 25-year-old was visibly devastated after her third and final miss, remaining on the landing mat for several moments as she composed herself before eventually rising to acknowledge the crowd.
The Auckland vaulter had been hoping to join brother Cam Taggart, who claimed silver in the men’s 88kg weightlifting competition on Wednesday, on the podium in Glasgow.