The NZOC is paying tribute to Dame Valerie Adams who has today (March 1st) announced she is calling time on her international career.
The 37-year-old hangs up her throwing shoes as one of New Zealand’s most accomplished and respected athletes. Competing across five editions of the Olympic Games, she has won a staggering two golds, one silver and one bronze medal in shot put.
She is the second ever New Zealand woman to have competed at five Olympics, alongside Barbara Kendall.
In the Commonwealth Games, she has claimed an impressive three gold and two silver medals since her debut at Manchester in 2002. Dame Valerie carried the flag for New Zealand at the Opening Ceremony of the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games and the Closing Ceremony of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.
NZOC CEO Kereyn Smith thanked Dame Valerie for her extensive contribution to New Zealand sport.
“Dame Valerie has been a valued member of the New Zealand team for two-decades,” said Smith.
“She has been a leader of our teams, both through her performance and her actions on and off the field of play. She has inspired countless young athletes, and especially young women and Pasifika peoples to chase their dreams.
“She embodies the values of the New Zealand Team and her drive and determination have been second to none.
“Dame Valerie retires as one of our greatest ever Olympians and athletes. She will be missed by our athletes and our teams, and we wish her all the best for whatever comes next.”
Dame Valerie was unbeaten in major world events from 2006 to 2014, having an unprecedented winning streak of 107 competitions during that period. She was the World Athletics Female Athlete of the Year for 2014.
She has won 17 New Zealand shot put titles and was the Halberg Sportswoman of the Year award winner in seven consecutive years from 2006. She has also been awarded the NZOC's Lonsdale Cup in 2006, 2007, 2011, 2013 and 2014.
Born in Rotorua, she competes for Pakuranga Athletic Club. Her personal best is a massive 21.24m, thrown at the World Championships in 2011.
A sibling of basketball star Steven Adams and Para athlete Lisa Adams, she is a proud mum to daughter Kimoana and son Kepaleli.