You would think pole vault poles snapping mid-flight would happen more often, as much as they bend and as high as vaulters go. But, lo and behold, it happened Wednesday during qualifying in the men's event at Olympic Stadium.

Cuba's Lazaro Borges was attempting a height of 5.35 meters, but almost immediately after he planted his pole: Snap! It shattered into three pieces. Evidently those fiberglass poles go through wear and tear. It even made a sound similar to breaking a twig at the park.

The good news is Borges, last year's runner-up at the World Championships, landed safely on the mat and was able to continue in the competition, eventually conquering the mark on his third attempt. The bad news is he didn't qualify for Friday's final. At least his bags are a little bit lighter now.

H/T Eye on Olympics