Training for the Olympics in Knoxville with Marissa Kalsey

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   Connect with ConnectTheKnox - Follow the Podcast - iTunes Spotify Or wherever you listen to Podcasts Podcast Created With Riverside.fm - Connect with Julia -  Follow me on TikTok Connect with me on Instagram Find me on Twitter Follow me on Facebook   - Buy or Sell a home in Knoxville -  Just Homes Realty Group: www.justhomesgroup.com Find my Home Buyers & Home Sellers Guide here: https://linktr.ee/thejuliahurley