Marissa Kalsey is a pole vaulter and Olympic hopeful who moved to Knoxville to train with world-class coaches. In this episode of ConnectTheKnox, we explore how living in a central southern location like Knoxville affects training for track and field athletes. Marissa also describes the risk involved in pole vaulting, and the intense qualifying process athletes like her go through to compete at the Olympics. Tune in to learn more about the track and field community in Knoxville, as well as Marissa's favorite local hangouts.

00:00 Intro

00:36 Marissa explains how she moved to Knoxville for Olympic pole vault training

02:04 Marissa describes what the Olympic training process looks like here in Knoxville for the pole vaulting program

05:30 How Knoxville differs from where Marissa grew up in Pennsylvania, and why our central location makes travel for fun and pole vault meets convenient

08:26 Julia asks the question on everyone's mind: How heavy are pole vaulting poles?

10:24 The equipment used in pole vaulting and the potential for injury in the sport

14:55 Marissa explains the process of qualifying for the Olympics

17:31 Ad - Just Homes Group Realty Executives

18:14 How the pole vaulting and pro athlete community is growing in Knoxville

24:38 Marissa's favorite spots around Knoxville, including Three Rivers Market, downtown restaurants, and more

26:06 How the ConnectTheKnox audience can support Marissa's Olympic dreams

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