Bubka Bumps His World Vault Record to 20-0 1/2

Sergei Bubka of Ukraine broke his world outdoor record in the pole vault Saturday by soaring 20 feet one-half inch at an international track meet.

Bubka set the previous record of 20 feet last year at Malmo, Sweden.

Saturday’s jump marked the 30th time Bubka has set the pole vault record indoors or outdoors, surpassing the 29 world records set by distance runner Paavo Nurmi of Finland during the 1920s.

Bubka has set 14 world outdoor records and 16 world indoor records. His best jump indoors was 20-1 1/2 in February at Berlin. He is the only vaulter ever to clear 20 feet.

“I am very happy to set the record, especially now in the Olympic season,” said Bubka, who appeared to be about two inches over the bar on his record vault. “It’s very important to do well in an Olympic year.”

The three-time world champion and 1988 Olympic gold medalist made only three vaults, also clearing 19-0 1/2 and 19-7.

World champion Marie-Jose Perec of France won the women’s 400 meters in 49.66 seconds, best time in the world this year.