**Athletics at the 2002 Commonwealth Games – Women’s Shot Put**
**Definition**
The women’s shot put event at the 2002 Commonwealth Games was a track and field competition in which female athletes from Commonwealth nations competed by throwing a heavy spherical object, known as the shot, as far as possible. This event was part of the athletics program held during the Games in Manchester, England.
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## Athletics at the 2002 Commonwealth Games – Women’s Shot Put
### Overview
The women’s shot put competition at the 2002 Commonwealth Games took place at the City of Manchester Stadium in Manchester, England. The event was held on August 2, 2002, as part of the athletics schedule. The Commonwealth Games, a multi-sport event held every four years, brings together athletes from the Commonwealth of Nations to compete in various sports, including athletics.
Shot put is a field event where competitors throw a heavy metal ball, called the shot, from within a designated circle, aiming to achieve the greatest possible distance. The women’s shot put uses a shot weighing 4 kilograms (8.82 pounds). The event tests strength, technique, and explosive power.
### Venue and Conditions
The City of Manchester Stadium, primarily built for the 2002 Commonwealth Games, served as the venue for the athletics events. The stadium featured a modern track and field facility with seating for over 38,000 spectators. Weather conditions on the day of the women’s shot put event were generally favorable, with mild temperatures and minimal wind, providing an optimal environment for the athletes.
### Format and Rules
The competition followed the standard rules set by the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF), now World Athletics. Each athlete was allowed a series of throws, typically three initial attempts. The top eight competitors after these attempts were granted three additional throws, with the longest valid throw determining the final standings.
Athletes must throw the shot from within a 2.135-meter diameter circle and release it above shoulder height using either the glide or spin technique. A throw is considered valid if the athlete does not step outside the circle before the shot lands and if the shot lands within the designated sector.
### Participants
The women’s shot put event featured a field of competitors representing various Commonwealth countries. Notable participants included athletes from Australia, England, Canada, New Zealand, and other nations with strong track and field programs. The event attracted some of the top female shot putters from the Commonwealth, many of whom had competed in previous international competitions such as the Olympic Games and World Championships.
### Medalists
The competition concluded with the awarding of gold, silver, and bronze medals to the top three performers based on their longest valid throws.
– **Gold Medal:** Valerie Vili (New Zealand)
– **Silver Medal:** Melissa Price (Australia)
– **Bronze Medal:** Shani Marks (England)
Valerie Vili, who later became known as Valerie Adams, was the standout athlete of the event. Her winning throw demonstrated superior technique and power, securing New Zealand’s first gold medal in the women’s shot put at the Commonwealth Games.
### Results Summary
The final results showcased a competitive field, with several athletes achieving personal bests and season-best performances. Valerie Vili’s winning throw measured 18.81 meters, a distance that underscored her dominance in the event. Melissa Price secured silver with a best throw of 17.45 meters, while Shani Marks earned bronze with a mark of 16.90 meters.
The competition was marked by close contests for the silver and bronze medals, with only centimeters separating the athletes in the final rounds. Several competitors fouled attempts or failed to improve on their initial throws, highlighting the pressure and technical demands of the event.
### Significance and Legacy
The 2002 Commonwealth Games women’s shot put event was significant for several reasons. It marked the emergence of Valerie Vili as a major force in international shot put, a status she would maintain for over a decade. Her victory helped raise the profile of athletics in New Zealand and inspired a new generation of athletes.
The event also reflected the growing competitiveness of women’s field events within the Commonwealth, with athletes from multiple countries demonstrating high levels of performance. The Games provided a platform for athletes to gain international experience and exposure ahead of other major competitions such as the World Championships and Olympic Games.
### Technical Analysis
Valerie Vili’s technique during the competition was characterized by a powerful glide across the shot put circle, generating momentum and maximizing the release velocity of the shot. Her consistent form and ability to maintain balance under pressure were key factors in her success.
The use of the glide technique, as opposed to the rotational spin method, was prevalent among many competitors at the time. The glide involves a linear movement across the circle, which can be easier to master and control, especially under competition conditions.
### Historical Context
The women’s shot put has been a part of the Commonwealth Games athletics program since 1934, evolving alongside the sport’s development globally. By 2002, the event had seen increasing participation and performance standards, reflecting broader trends in women’s athletics.
The 2002 Games were notable for the introduction of new facilities and increased media coverage, which helped elevate the status of athletics within the Commonwealth sporting community. The performances in the women’s shot put contributed to the overall success and competitive spirit of the Games.
### Conclusion
The women’s shot put event at the 2002 Commonwealth Games was a highlight of the athletics program, showcasing the strength and skill of Commonwealth athletes. Valerie Vili’s gold medal performance marked the beginning of a distinguished career, while the competition itself demonstrated the depth of talent across the participating nations. The event remains a memorable chapter in the history of Commonwealth athletics.
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**Meta Description:**
The women’s shot put at the 2002 Commonwealth Games featured top athletes competing at Manchester’s City of Manchester Stadium, with Valerie Vili of New Zealand winning gold. The event highlighted emerging talent and competitive performances in Commonwealth athletics.