LET THE GAMES BEGIN!
After the Olympic Games was delayed due to the Covid pandemic, our nation’s greatest athletes put their dreams of glory on hold, not knowing when or if they would get their shot. Now, with an extra year of training under their belts, New Zealand’s largest-ever Olympic team is more than ready to bring home the medals.
In this Olympic special, we look at some of the inspiring Kiwi women who are competing for a place on the podium. From the highly decorated to first-time Olympians, to how Covid will change the competition, the Weekly has all you need to know about an Olympic Games like no other.
VALERIE ADAMS
SHOT PUTTER
Shot put queen Dame Valerie Adams has already competed at an impressive four Olympics, but her fifth – in Tokyo – will hold a special place in her heart. This time, she’s going with her younger sister Lisa.
Lisa, who was born with cerebral palsy, has been selected to compete in shot put and discus at the Paralympics, and proud sister and coach Valerie will be by her side as she makes her debut at the event, which follows directly on from the summer Olympics.
“I’m so proud of Lisa,” says Valerie. “I love the fact that she’s so driven. At training, we have a coach/athlete relationship, but when we’re not at training, we’re just two sisters. It’s awesome.”
The Adams family has never treated Lisa, 30, differently because of her disability. She played sport growing up and taking the easier option was never a choice.
