Nicosia: Seventeen-year-old Cypriot athlete Marina Hadjicosta has secured the bronze medal in the women's discus throw at the World Athletics U20 Championships held in Oregon, USA. This achievement marks a significant milestone in Hadjicosta's career, underscoring her position among the world's prominent young athletes, as announced by the Cyprus Amateur Athletics Federation (KOEAS).
According to Cyprus News Agency, Hadjicosta, under the guidance of her coach Constantinos Stavrou, achieved her best throw of 54.88 metres during her fourth attempt. She made a remarkable start in the final round, initially securing third place with her opening throw and maintaining her podium position despite various shifts in the standings.
Hadjicosta's initial three throws measured 53.99m, 53.96m, and 51.88m. In the fourth round, American competitor Jaslynn Massey advanced to second place with a throw of 56.17m, momentarily pushing Hadjicosta to fourth. The determined Cypriot athlete quickly responded with a throw of 54.88m, reclaiming her third-place position and ensuring her spot on the podium. China's Yixin Xu achieved the gold medal with a throw of 61.06m, while Massey secured the silver with a 58.41m throw.