Canadian shot putter Sarah Mitton experienced a mix of elation and relief as she secured her second consecutive victory in the women’s shot put at the world indoor track and field championships in Nanjing, China. Mitton clinched the title with a top throw of 20.48 meters, surpassing the second-place finisher by 0.41 meters.
Reflecting on her win, Mitton, hailing from Brooklyn, N.S., shared that defending her championship came with added pressure and scrutiny this year. She expressed relief at overcoming personal challenges and disappointments, including a tough summer and an unsatisfactory performance at the Paris Olympics.
Despite her success, the competition was marred by long delays due to the simultaneous scheduling of other events. Mitton’s coach, Richard Parkinson, praised her focus and professionalism amid the interruptions, highlighting her mental resilience and adaptability.
Looking ahead, Mitton is determined to reach the elusive 21-meter mark, believing she could have achieved it if not for the disruptions during the competition. The 28-year-old athlete ended the indoor season on a high note, setting a new Canadian indoor record and maintaining strong performances throughout.
With her sights set on the outdoor season and the upcoming world championships in Tokyo, Mitton aims to add to her impressive track record, which includes victories at various major competitions. While eyeing gold in Tokyo, she remains focused on surpassing the 21-meter milestone, drawing inspiration and confidence from her past accomplishments.
