Lillefosse Leaps to Victory at Vault Manchester

Men’s Competition

Pal Lillefosse during his introduction

Norway’s Pal Lillefosse produced a season’s best clearance of 5.31m to secure victory in the men’s competition at Vault Manchester.

The 2022 European Championship bronze medallist showed encouraging signs of a return to top form, clearing 5.21m and 5.31m at the first time of asking. Lillefosse made three attempts at 5.41m before bowing out, comfortably sealing the win.

Tom Walley pushed Lillefosse all the way, matching the 5.21m height with a first-time clearance and producing strong attempts at 5.31m — a mark that would have secured the Welsh Commonwealth Games ‘B’ standard. The performance continues an impressive run of form following his bronze medal at last week’s British Championships.

Completing the podium was Will Lane, who cleared 5.06m and came agonisingly close to 5.21m, a height that would have marked a new personal best. Will’s result builds on his recent victory at the British University Championships.

Pal Lillefosse on his way to victory

Back-to-Back For Nemiah

Women’s Competition

Nemiah Munir on her way to victory

Nemiah Munir won the women’s Vault Manchester competition, claiming back-to-back victories in a tightly contested women’s competition.

Nemiah and Tilly both cleared 4.21m, with the victory decided on countback. Munir secured the win thanks to a first-time clearance at 4.21m, while Hooper cleared on her second attempt — the single miss proving decisive.

Both athletes had close attempts at 4.31m but it was not to be, leaving Nemiah on top.

Fresh from her third-place finish at the British Championships last weekend, Jade Ive secured third place with a first-time clearance at 4.01m.

Tilly Hooper in action

Standout Performances Across the Field

There were impressive performances throughout the meet. Nathan Mobbs won the men’s ‘B’ competition with a new Scottish Indoor U18 record of 4.76m — adding 30cm to his previous best and moving to the top of the UK Under-20 rankings.

In the women’s ‘B’ competition, Lottie Pinches claimed victory with 3.56m, achieving her second personal best in as many weeks.

The event welcomed 97 starters from 124 entries, representing eight countries, producing 30 personal bests and numerous season’s bests. Notably, four athletes competed in their first-ever pole vault competition which is amazing to see and a is mission for Vault Manchester to get more people pole vaulting.

Panigis Zapantis in action

We would like to thank all officials, volunteers, sponsors, supporters and everyone who helped make the day a success. Vault Manchester is set to return this summer with its Summer Series events, with further announcements, including plans for 2027 to follow later in the year.