Dame Valerie Adams has announced that at age 37 her shot put career has come to a close.
She announced her retirement at a press conference today, ending an incredible 20-year career that included two Olympic gold medals, four World Championship titles, four Indoor World Championship titles and three Commonwealth Games gold medals - and off the track and field we've seen her become a Barbie doll and a mother.
"Today I'm here to share with you all that I'm officially hanging up these size 14 throwing shoes," Adams said.
"After winning my bronze medal in Tokyo, I contemplated whether to embark on another campaign. I took some time to really process this thought and to see if it was something I actually wanted to do again. My heart, mind and body simply answered the question for me so it's time to call it a day."
On representing Aotearoa, Adams said "representing Aotearoa for the last 22 years has given me so much joy. As my life's work I'm humbled to show that little old New Zealand has what it takes to be the best in the world.
"While today marks the end of my shot put career, athletics will always be part of my life. I have given my heart and soul to this sport. Loved and nurtured it from a young age, watched it grow as a girl to now as a woman fully grown. It is beautiful and exciting, at times hard and unforgiving but always honest. Ever enquiring.
"To all of those that dare lift the shot, I'm looking at you girl, do so with my blessing as it has been to me. I give also to you, strength and courage. There is the dream good and true. Take it."
We are so proud of you and everything you have achieved, one of the best to ever do it.
