Maddison Wesche has continued New Zealand's stunning run of World shot put champions, winning the Women's Under 20 World Championship in Finland with a last gasp effort.
NZ shot putter Maddison Wesche. Photo: Athletics NZ
Sitting in third after the second round with 16.47m, the 19 year old Aucklander did not improve until she unleashed a huge 17.09m personal best effort, hitting the lead by 0.04m from Chinese and Dutch athletes on 17.05m.
Wesche continues New Zealand's fine run of shot put world titles following the recent heroics of Dame Valerie Adams, Tom Walsh and Jacko Gill.
Coached by Gill's father Walter and strength and conditioning specialist Mike Schofield, Wesche took advantage of her previous international experience to remain focused right to the end of the competition, adding 0.09m to her personal best.
The new 2018 champion finished 20th two years ago at the 2016 World Under 20 Championships and 17th at the 2015 Under 18 Championships and becomes the third Kiwi to win an Under 20 title after Adams victory in 2002 and Gill's two victories in 2010 and 2012.
