Ron Morris

Event: Pole Vault

Inducted to Hall of Fame: 1986

Ron was a top pole vaulter during a period of transition for the event. He gained renown for his ability to master the various types of poles that came into use while he was competing. He was able to transition from bamboo to steel and then fiberglass poles, and remain competitive internationally throughout this period.

Ron was a five-time winner at the Relays. He captured three U.S. National Championships. The highlight of his career was his silver medal performance at the 1960 Rome Olympics, where he finished behind only teammate Don Bragg.

Ron coached at Cal State L.A. for many years. Since retiring from that position, he has run OnTrack, a company that supplies track and field equipment.

Born: 1935

College: USC

• 1959: 1st, 14-10 (4.52m)
• 1960: 1st, 15-4 (4.67m)
• 1961: 1st, 15-0 1/2 (4.58m)
• 1963: 1st, 15-6/2 (4.74m)
• 1965: 1st (tie), 16-0 (4.88m)
• 1966: 4th (tie), 16-0

• PR: 16-5 3/4
• Olympic Silver Medal, 1960
  • 15-1 (4.60m)
• U.S. National Champion:
  • 1958: 14-9
  • 1961: 15-8
  • 1962: 16-0 1/4