Rogers relishes 'unbelievable' experience in high jump

By Mary Albl of DyeStat 

NEW YORK -- It was a moment Jenna Rogers won't soon forget. The Rutherford High NJ sophomore was one of just six athletes competing Saturday in the 111th NYRR Millrose Games John Thomas women's high jump at The Armory.

“It was unbelievable,” Rogers said of the experience. 

Rogers earned her spot in the all-professional field as the current US#1 high school jumper in the country, clearing 5 feet, 10 inches. Less than year ago, she set the freshman national prep record of 6-0.75 and won the New Balance Nationals Outdoor title. The lights were brighter and the stage was bigger Saturday.

Rogers managed to clear 5-8.75, but couldn't get over 5-11.

“I was very nervous,” Rogers said. “I just tried to breathe a little (and) eventually after my first two attempts, I calmed down and I cleared it on my third attempt.”

Rogers finished sixth as 20-year-old reigning world indoor champion Vashti Cunningham won the event with a massive leap of 6-5.

“I think because I was so nervous, I didn't get the best jump I possibly could,” Rogers said. “I was kind of upset I didn't get a solid attempt at 5-11.”

While the results might not have been what she envisioned, Rogers said being able to talk to and compete against professionals in a sport she loves was a great takeaway. 

“I'm just so glad I experienced a meet like this at such a young age,” Rogers said. “I want to do this for as long as I possibly can, so I'm glad I experienced it at 15 and not 25 when I'm an actual competitor trying to go far.”