Valarie Allman Shines as Delhi Half Marathon's Ambassador
Olympic champion Valarie Allman, renowned for her gold medal wins in discus at both Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024, steps into a new role as the International Event Ambassador for the 2024 Delhi Half Marathon. Her historic achievements and enthusiasm are set to inspire runners worldwide.
- Country:
- India
Renowned American discus thrower, Valarie Allman, who clinched gold medals at both the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympics, has been appointed the International Event Ambassador for the upcoming Delhi Half Marathon, slated for October 20. Allman's 69.50-meter throw in Paris set a new American record, affirming her status among the world's elite in the sport. Her Olympic journey began triumphantly with a 68.98-meter throw at the Tokyo Games, marking the first gold for an American woman in this category since 2008. Alongside her Olympic triumphs, Allman is a distinguished two-time World Championship medalist, securing silver in 2023 and bronze in 2022.
Allman's foray into athletics was unexpected. Originally aspiring to become a dancer, her path pivoted to track and field during high school, inspired by her elder brother. Rising swiftly through the ranks, she captured silver at the 2017 Summer Universiade, setting the stage for her international career. Despite missing the podium at the 2017 World Championships, her determination shone through when she qualified for the US Olympic team in 2020, ultimately securing her historic gold. With a personal best throw of 71.46 meters at the 2022 Triton Invitational, she ranks among the top performers in global history.
Upon her appointment as Ambassador for the Delhi Half Marathon 2024, Allman expressed her excitement about visiting India. She remarked, "The beauty of a running event lies in uniting us as a community, making it our own for a greater cause. The start line symbolizes a celebration of resilience and personal milestones. I'm thrilled my first visit to India coincides with this vibrant event, echoing #AaRangDeDilli." Allman's statement was featured in an official release from the Delhi Half Marathon organizers.
Continuing her dominance, Allman's gold-winning throw at the Paris Olympics surpassed her nearest competitor, China's Bin Feng, by nearly two meters, cementing her supremacy in discus throwing. (ANI)
(With inputs from agencies.)