Beginning January 24th, Milesplit Arkansas will feature one inductee in the Arkansas Track and Field Hall of Fame every week leading up to the 2025 ceremony.
[From the Arkansas Track and Field Hall of Fame]: "The Arkansas Track and Field Hall of Fame, which began honoring athletes in 1995, is dedicated to recognizing Arkansans whose performances and contributions have distinguished them in the world of track and field. Its stated mission is to 'honor and recognize persons who have made significant contributions to the sports of track and field and cross country in the state of Arkansas; and recognize and encourage Arkansas high school track athletes who have excelled in performance and /or academics."
Ballots for this year's Hall of Fame were due on February 4th. Questions concerning the ATFHOF can be directed to their website here and tickets for the 2025 banquet can be purchased here. This year's banquet is scheduled for Friday, May 30th.
Today's Hall of Fame Friday features former world record holder and bronze medalist pole vaulter, Earl Bell.
Earl Bell, Class of 1995
Jonesboro High School, Arkansas State University
[Bio from ATFHOF]
This 3-time Olympian won a Bronze Medal in Pole Vaulting at the 1984 Olympic Games.
He was the world record holder in 1976, held the American record twice in his career and was an American champion in three different decades. The Jonesboro native and Arkansas State University graduate was a 5-time NCAA champion and the Pan American Games champion in 1975. Earl Bell's personal best is a pole vault in 19' 3".
[More on Bell]
- Spent 16 consecutive years ranked inside the Top 6 of the US Pole Vault Rankings
- Ranked inside Top 7 of World Rankings for 8 years
- Developed 'Bell Athletics' and coached some of the country's best pole vaulters
- 2x AAU Pole Vault Champion (1976 & 1984)
- 2nd at World Indoor Championships (1987)