‘It’s a dream come true’
A Southland track and field athlete has achieved her dream in gaining selection for the Paris Olympics.
Javelin thrower Tori Peeters has been named in the 15-strong New Zealand team to compete in the world’s premier sporting event from July 26 to August 11. Wearing the silver fern in front of millions of people watching the biggest sporting event in the world has been a dream for Peeters ever since she began competing as a javelin thrower.
“It’s a dream come true,” she said. “The selection has been so many years in the making. It’s had its ups and downs for sure, so making the team means a lot to me.”
The 29-year-old, from Gore, has been in strong form the past couple of seasons, and with a personal best effort of more than 63m in Japan last year, she can compete with
the best in the world.
“It hasn’t really sunk in yet. I am currently in China for a few competitions, so I haven’t officially been able to celebrate it yet with friends, family and my support team.”
Her confidence about performing in Paris is justified. Last year was a breakthrough one, with Peeters reaching the podium five times in Europe, and at the prestigious Seiko Golden Grand Prix in Yokohama, while a silver medal at the Diamond League final in Oregon was her highlight.
Peeters, who competed at the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games, is aiming for the final in Paris.
“My first goal is to make it past the qualifying round and into the final. That is often the hardest part.
“A final at a major championship is anyone’s game, and I know that when I am capable of piecing things together on the runway, I can make it on to the podium.”
There’s still a bit to sort out in the lead-up to Paris, but for now, she’s just stoked a childhood dream has come true.