Aug. 21, 2008

Beijing, China - Former Cal State Fullerton pole vaulter Giovanni Lanaro has been eliminated from the Olympic competition in Beijing after failing to clear 5.55 meters (about 18 feet, 2 1/2 inches) on Wednesday. Lanaro was competing for Mexico, where he holds dual citizenship as well as the Mexican national pole vault record.

Lanaro cleared 5.45 meters (about 17 feet, 10 1/2 inches) on his second attempt but failed on three tries at 5.55. Thirteen vaulters cleared 5.65 meters (about 18 feet, 6 1/2 inches) to advance to Friday's finals.

Derek Miles is the only one of three Americans to gain the finals. Brad Walker passed until 5.65 meters and then missed all three attempts. Jeff Hartwig cleared 5.55 but went out at 5.65.

Lanaro holds the Cal State Fullerton school record at 18 feet, 4 1/2 inches, set in 2004. He also holds the Titan track record of 5.65 meters, set on March 12, 2005, when he was competing for Mexico.