Kjell Isaksson, who set a world record in pole vault three times in the 1970s, has been one of Armand Duplanti's great role models. The 71-year-old missed tonight's competition but was quick to congratulate via Facebook.
- That was unbelievable. He is so superior and has such a style that he has complete control of the jumps. It's nothing extreme for him, he's been so good all the time, Isaksson says.
- In my eyes he is not 20 years, he has been jumping for so long. He has been an elite rider for five years, so I don't think about age. That's how he jumps, it's outclassing.
"Never any danger"The stake jump legend is fascinated by the "Mondo" way of jumping.
- When Renaud Lavillenie jumped 6.16 it was like closing his eyes because he had such a bend so it looked like he could fly in all directions. But when "Mondo" jumps there is never any danger, says Isaksson.
It warms the heart of the 71-year-old gets a boost.
- It is great fun that he is doing so well for him and that there may be an upswing in pole vault. It will be an extra kick, I think, says Isaksson.