Valerie Vili putting at the 2009 Sydney Track Classic (© Getty Images)
Olympic champion Valerie Vili continues her winning streak with her latest victory in Sydney as she collects yet another national honour...
“Hi All,
“Well, since the last entry to my online diary I have picked up the Supreme Halberg Award and Halberg Sportswomen of the year for the second year running. I am the first woman in New Zealand sporting history to ever do that! (The Halberg Awards honour sporting excellence by New Zealanders and are acknowledged as the official New Zealand Sports Awards.)
“When I heard my name announced as winner of the Supreme award I was so happy, but also surprised, as I knew we (New Zealand) had a lot of success this year at the Olympics and the line up of winners from the other categories (Sportsman, Sports Team) was pretty impressive. I was honoured to be chosen and felt very humble to receive this award as it was the icing on the cake for 2008.
“To make the night even more exciting, my coach Kirsten Hellier picked up the Coach of the year award. I was so happy to see Kirsten’s contribution to my success recognised because, with us, it really is a team effort! We just soaked up the atmosphere on the night with both our husbands there also.
“My first outing for the season was on the 20th February at the IAAF Permit Meeting in Waitakere. I had a lot of nerves going into the competition as the first comp of the season is always crazy. I just wanted to go out and have a good throw. Nadzeya from Belarus was down under to compete also.
“The weather was awful for the meet but I didn’t care. I train in all conditions and I ain't made of brown sugar so was out there giving it my all.
“To come away with a New Zealand Resident Record and All-Comers Record (20.25m - breaking my 20.20m from Christchurch two years ago) was a great start to the year for me. After travelling for more than thirty hours from her home, Nadzeya admitted to me that she now understands how far New Zealand is from the rest of the world!
“I am currently at Auckland airport on my way to Sydney* for the next two competitions which are the Sydney (28th February) and Melbourne (5th March) Grand Prix, so I’m very excited. They calling my name to board the plane. Gotta run.
“Take care.
“Till next time”
Val
* Vili competed in Sydney last week winning with a new meeting record of 20.09m
