FPD's Carson Dingler keeps clearing higher marks

Carson Dingler already has an age group world record under her belt, but her aim is set much higher.

The junior pole vaulter from FPD is in the midst of a spectacular season.

"It's pretty nice when you can typically count on 10 points coming from the girls' pole vault," FPD girls track and field head coach Walker Middlebrooks said. "It helps our team a lot."

Those 10 points provided by Dingler in each meet have helped the Vikings secure wins in various meets.

Dingler also competes on the national level. In March, she competed in the New Balance Nationals Indoor high school meet in New York, which she won by clearing 13 feet, 4½ inches.

"I have never jumped there before, so it was a new experience," Dingler said. "I really didn't think I was going to do well, but it ended up being a really good meet."

When going to new places, she looks to keep the same mindset as when she competes in local meets.

"I just got to pray that God keeps me calm, because it is pretty nerve-wracking," Dingler said. "Every meet counts. So no matter how big the caliber is for a meet it still goes on your record, no matter what."

Even after winning the national title and breaking a world record, Dingler is looking to a bigger goal. The Summer Olympics will be held in August in Brazil, and Dingler hopes to be there to compete.

The U.S. Olympic trials qualifying standard, according to the USA Track and Field website, is 14-5¼. The trials take place July 1-10 in Eugene, Oregon.

"I have to get a little higher for trials, but I think it is possible within in the next few months." Dingler said. "I just have to keep increasing my training. Getting stronger and faster."

On April 20, Carson and FPD will compete in the GHSA Area 1-A private school meet. Middlebrooks is hoping that Dingler and the team will be ready to go.

"As a team, we are trying to work to peak at the right time." Middlebrooks said. "Our area is very competitive on the girls' side. We have a good number of teams that are pretty close. So those 10 points (from Dingler) can play big factor as a team."

It is Middlebrooks' first season at FPD, and he has enjoyed the chance to work with Dingler, who he says is the most talented athlete he has ever worked with on the high school level.

"For Carson, the season has obviously been great and having her as part of our team," Middlebrooks said. "It's also been fun to see her go to some bigger events and compete on the national level and to represent our school well in those meets."

This story was originally published April 12, 2016 at 9:18 PM with the headline "FPD's Carson Dingler keeps clearing higher marks ."