SAN MARCOS, Texas – Former Texas State standout Anicka Newell has advanced to the women's pole vault final at the Tokyo Olympics. The final features 15 total athletes and is scheduled for Thursday, August 5, at 5:20 a.m. (CT)  
 
Following a rain delay earlier Monday, Newell, who is competing for Canada, advanced to the final after clearing 4.55 meters (14' 11") on her first attempt. She is one of seven vaulters to advance without any misses.
 
Earlier this year, she qualified for the Olympic Games after clearing a career-best 4.70 meters (15' 5").
 
Newell earned Honorable Mention All-American honors at the 2015 NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships when she finished in 15th place after an eighth-place finish at the NCAA West Prelims. She won her second-straight Sun Belt Conference Outdoor Championship when she cleared a collegiate-best 4.28 meters (14' 5").
 
This appearance marks the second time she is competing in the Olympic Games, after qualifying in 2016 at Rio de Janeiro. She also finished in 12th place at the 2017 World Championships in London.