by Rob Earle

As a boredom breaker in these challenging times and to create a focal point for Shot Putters, the Valhalla Academy, based in York, organised an online Shot competition for Saturday 2nd May 2020. Although not official, it
provided the throwing community an opportunity for 200 athletes from around the globe whilst raising money for NHS charities.

Those entered were asked to be creative in their facilitation of throwing “circles” if they had no access to specific competition areas or specific equipment. The highlight of the day was a screened competition on the Vinco streaming site between the top two Senior throwers
Scott Lincoln and Sophie Mckinna against the top Under throwers Serena Vincent and Lewis Byng. With the under twenty pairing winning by one centimetre.

On a local level, Under 17 thrower Olivia Simon exceeded her PB of 7.97m with a series which exceeded this with all five measured throws. The best of which was 9.52m. Hopefully Olivia has a chance to advance this during 2021. Under 15 athlete Wyatt Larkins was able to produce a 7.43m
effort, which would have represented a PB. The evidence from both athletes, through online coaching support, suggests that they will both be throwing the Hammer and Shot significantly further when opportunities present.

To complete the Harriers entries Rob Earle, throwing in the Brightlingsea Regent FC car park, produced a series of throws beyond 13m with the M60 weight, slightly ahead of his age group change in September. The best mark being 13.22m.

Let’s look forward to a healthier and safer future, where we can all get back to what we enjoy.