All eyes are on the National Athletics Centre in Budapest, where the pole-vault event will feature two women with strong connections to the celebrated novel "Maggie Vaults Over the Moon."

BUDAPEST, Hungary -- As the anticipation mounts for the 2023 World Outdoor Track and Field Championships, all eyes are on the National Athletics Centre, where another captivating chapter of athletic history is about to unfold. This prestigious event, set to commence this Friday, will feature two pole-vaulters with strong connections to the celebrated novel that has inspired the hearts of athletics enthusiasts and dreamers alike: "Maggie Vaults Over the Moon."

Olympic Champion Katerina Stefanidi of Greece and Bridget (Guy) Williams of the USA are poised to take on the women's pole-vaulting competition. The qualifying rounds are set Monday, August 21, with the finals on Wednesday, August 23.

Teen mental health advocate Katerina Stefanidi wrote the foreword to Maggie Vaults Over the Moon.

Katerina, a true luminary in the sport, has consistently secured top positions in global finals since 2015. Her crowning achievement was clinching the Olympic gold medal for Greece in 2016. Fresh from placing fourth in Doha and achieving her season's best in London, her social media posts show her in top form as she readies herself for what promises to be another stellar performance next week.

Katerina's connection to "Maggie Vaults Over the Moon" extends beyond sports. She provides a foreword that imparts a positive message about mental health to young readers. Through her participation in Grant Overstake's young adult novel, Stefanidi becomes an inspiration for the upcoming generation, embodying qualities of perseverance and determination.

Hailing from Athens, Greece, Katerina stands as a living testament to the nation's Olympic heritage. Her personal challenges and successes are at the forefront of her heartfelt message to young readers.

“Like Maggie, our success in life and in sport comes from listening to the voice that whispers to us from within, to get back up and try again!” — Katerina Stefanidi (from the foreword)

Dr. Melissa White and her high-flying former pupil, Bridget (Guy) Williams. (Courtesy Photo)

Bridget's connection to "Maggie Vaults Over the Moon" comes from her former high school coach, Dr. Melissa White. Besides her role as a Language Arts Teacher at Hempfield High School in Pennsylvania, Dr. White, who holds a Doctorate in Sport Psychology, offers valuable advice to athletes regarding their mental performance. Her dedication significantly influenced Bridget, a former state champion and standout at the University of Virginia.

Dr. White contributes insightful chapter questions to the novel, sparking meaningful group discussions. These discussions delve into themes of resilience and determination that are central to Maggie's story. The questions are part of a successful “toolkit” that she uses to help motivate and inspire her own athletes, including her star pole vaulter.

“Coaching Bridget in high school was an amazing experience. She is the kind of person who makes you better just by being around her. She, like Maggie, has had to overcome a lot of adversity, but has found a way to get through it and grow from it.” — Dr. Melissa White

Former Pennsylvania State Champion and Team USA Pole Vaulter, Bridget (Guy) Williams, is pictured at lower left with her Hempfield HS coach, Dr. Melissa White, who wrote the chapter questions for Maggie Vaults Over the Moon.

Embedded within its pages is a goldmine of life lessons for tweens and teens, bolstered by the strong-willed protagonist's triumphant narrative, which underscores the significance of persistence and resilience amid the trials adolescents often grapple with. The book's impact extends beyond sports, garnering endorsements from school counselors, adolescent psychologists, and Olympians turned coaches, many of whom have embraced it as a motivational tool for young athletes.

“This newly released edition of Maggie Vaults Over the Moon is perfectly designed as a classroom read.” — MARY R. LANNI, MLIS (5-Star Review)

So, tune-in to witness Katerina and Bridget soar to new heights at the World Championships. The 2023 World Track and Field Championships will be broadcast live on Peacock from August 19-27 in Budapest. The championships will also be broadcast on NBC, CNBC, and the USA Network.

And while you're at it, secure your copy of "Maggie Vaults Over the Moon," available in paperback, ebook, and expertly narrated on audiobook by Tavia Gilbert.

For a full preview of the pole vault events, click here.

For the link to the full meet schedule and live results, click here.

World Championships to Feature Pole-Vaulting Stars Linked to ‘Maggie Vaults Over the Moon’

“Like Maggie, our success in life and in sport comes from listening to the voice that whispers to us from within, to get back up and try again!” — Katerina Stefanidi (from the foreword)

“Coaching Bridget in high school was an amazing experience. She is the kind of person who makes you better just by being around her. She, like Maggie, has had to overcome a lot of adversity, but has found a way to get through it and grow from it.” — Dr. Melissa White