Rolando Cruz

Rolando Cruz was a pole vaulter who trained in the United States at Mercersburg Academy and then at Villanova University. Cruz was a three-time Olympian, starting in 1956 and just missing a medal in 1960 at Roma when he placed fourth. He was a three-time champion at the Central American and Caribbean Games, winning in 1959, 1962, and 1966, also adding a bronze medal at the 1959 Pan American Games.

Cruz was a three-time IC4A Champion for Villanova, winning in 1962-64. At the NCAA Meet he was fifth in 1962, second in 1963, and fifth in 1964. In the world rankings he was in the top 10 for three consecutive years, placing seventh in 1961 and 1963 and 10th in 1962.

Cruz later became a lawyer and President of a life insurance company. He was insurance commissioner of his native Puerto Rico from 1977-81.

Personal Best: PV – 4.96 (1964).