Yuri ISAKOV

Yury Isakov was the top Soviet pole vaulter in the 1970s, before the emergence of world class Soviet vaulters such as Konstantin Volkov and Sergey Bubka in the 1980s. During his career, Isakov competed at the 1976 Olympics, three European Championships (1969, 1971, 1973) and six European Indoor Championships (1969, 1971-72, 1974-1976). Isakov’s only Olympic appearance in 1976 was not very successful as missed his opening height of 5.10 during qualifying. Isakov also finished with no mark at the 1969 European Championships and 1976 European Indoor Championships. Isakov medaled twice at major international tournaments, winning bronze medals at both the 1973 European Championships and the 1971 European Indoor Championships. His other placements at major international tournaments were fourth at the 1969 and 1972 European Indoor Championships, fifth at the 1975 European Indoor Championships, seventh at the 1971 European Championships and ninth at the 1974 European Indoor Championships. He also won the pole vault at the 1973 European Cup. Domestically Isakov won two Soviet titles (1969, 1973) and five silvers at nationals (1970, 1972, 1974-1976). Isakov finished his sporting career in 1980 and later worked as a sports official. He was president of VS Sverdlovsk Sport Club from 1989-94 and from 1995 until his death in 2013 he worked with SKA Sverdlovsk Bandy Club in various leading positions.

Personal Best: PV – 5.50 (1977).