Dame Valerie Kasanita Adams is a celebrated retired New Zealand shot putter, renowned for her exceptional achievements in athletics. A four-time World champion and four-time World Indoor champion, Adams has made a significant mark on the global stage, securing two Olympic gold medals and three Commonwealth Games titles. Her personal best throw of 21.24 meters outdoors and 20.98 meters indoors stands as an Oceanian, Commonwealth, and New Zealand national record, underscoring her dominance in the sport.
Adams’ career trajectory began in 1998 when she was coached by Kirsten Hellier, leading her to victory at the 2001 World Youth Championships. She continued to excel, becoming the World Junior champion in 2002 and earning her first senior medal with a silver at the Commonwealth Games. Notably, her ascent to elite status included a remarkable winning streak of 56 consecutive victories from 2010 to 2015, showcasing her unparalleled consistency and competitive spirit.
Her accolades further include being the first woman to win four consecutive individual titles at the IAAF World Championships and being named the IAAF World Athlete of the Year in 2014. Adams’ dedication to her craft has not only earned her numerous titles but also recognition as New Zealand’s Sportswoman of the Year multiple times between 2006 and 2012.
Following her retirement in 2022, Adams has transitioned into sports administration, serving on the board of High Performance Sport New Zealand and chairing the World Athletics Athletes’ Commission. Her contributions to athletics extend beyond her competitive achievements, as she actively supports the next generation of athletes through coaching and mentorship, ensuring her legacy endures in the sport.