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In a remarkable display of skill and determination, Greg Stewart from Kamloops, B.C. made headlines by winning a gold medal in the shot put event at the World Para Athletics Championships in New Delhi. With an impressive throw of 16.68 meters, Stewart not only claimed the top spot on the podium but also achieved a significant milestone, marking his first world title.
At 39 years old, Stewart has a rich history of success in athletics, including two Paralympic gold medals. His path to this achievement, however, has been fraught with challenges. After his triumph at the Tokyo Paralympics, Stewart announced his retirement from competitive sports in 2022.
Yet, a deep connection to the sport he loves compelled him to return to competition just over a year later.
Overcoming challenges and embracing resilience
Stewart faced numerous challenges on his path to the gold medal, particularly when unforeseen weather changes disrupted the competition schedule.
Heavy rains led to the postponement of several events, including his own, testing his mental resilience. “I was quite frustrated by the situation. You train for an event all year, only to have it taken away at the last minute.
It’s tough to regroup under such circumstances,” Stewart stated. He highlighted the significance of resiliency that Team Canada has developed over the past year, which was vital to his performance.
Finding strength in adversity
“Competing at this level after everything that happened was a significant moment for me.
It proves that if you strive for excellence, you can achieve it. Having finished second in two prior world championships, this gold has been a long time coming,” he reflected with evident pride. Stewart’s ability to reset and focus on the moment allowed him to deliver an exceptional performance, showcasing his dedication and passion for the sport.
Celebrating other Canadian achievements
While Stewart’s victory was a highlight of the day, he shared the spotlight with fellow Canadian athlete Julia Hanes, who also made waves in her event. Hanes, competing in the women’s F33 shot put final, launched a remarkable throw of 7.51 meters, earning her a bronze medal. This achievement marked her first medal on the world stage, adding to the excitement for Canadian athletics.
Staying composed under pressure
Hanes expressed pride in maintaining a calm demeanor amidst the chaos of competition. After adjusting her chair due to protests, she refocused and performed exceptionally well. “One of my strengths is remaining composed during challenging situations. I was able to regroup and execute a throw that was just three centimeters shy of my personal best,” Hanes said, highlighting her mental strength and preparation.
The combined efforts of Stewart and Hanes, along with Katie Pegg’s recent success in capturing a bronze medal in the women’s F46 shot put, reflect a remarkable period for Canadian throwers. Their achievements underscore the athletes’ hard work and dedication while showcasing Canada’s increasing presence in the realm of Para athletics.
As the championships progress, the Canadian team is eager to leverage this momentum to inspire future athletes. United by a strong dedication to resilience and excellence, Stewart, Hanes, and their teammates aim to leave a lasting impact on the sport.
