Kiwi Tom Walsh has won a silver medal in the World Indoor Championships in Scotland.
His impressive opening throw of 22.07 meters initially put him in the lead. However, American athlete Ryan Crouser, known for holding the world record, clinched the gold medal with an astonishing throw of 22.77 meters in the fifth round, surpassing Walsh’s mark.
In the same championship, another New Zealander, Maddi Wesche, showcased her talent by setting a personal best of 19.62 meters in the women’s shotput, narrowly missing the podium by finishing fourth. Her performance was especially notable as it was her first indoor competition and it came after not competing since the World Championships in August 2023. Wesche’s throw was a mere 5 centimeters away from winning a medal, indicating her potential as a strong contender for future competitions, including the upcoming Paris Olympics.
Other New Zealand athletes also made their mark at the championships. James Preston set a new national indoor record in the men’s 800 meters but did not advance past the heats. Maia Ramsden qualified for the women’s 1500 meters final, and Geordie Beamish earned a spot in the men’s 1500 meters final, showcasing the depth and talent of New Zealand’s athletes on the world stage.
