By
FISU World University Games debutant and gold medal winner, Aiden Smith has promised longevity in the event if he stays injury-free.
The 20-year-old stunned his competitors by soaring to a gold medal in Rhine-Ruhr, Germany, after he appeared to be out of the running until the final throw.
Speaking to SABC Sport following his feat, Smith said getting a podium finish ahead of the favourite – in his first attempt – was only the beginning.
"This is my first year back competing after missing out the last two years due to injury, so this achievement feels really special.
"I was in sixth position until the last throw, and the other five competitors had a chance to surpass my final throw, so I was stressing throughout," said the jubilant Smith.
Smith said the determination to push through and manage a successful 20.25 attempt was inspired by his father.
"My father is my role model, my hero, and my everything. He taught me how to be mentally strong and the importance of never giving up."
The TUT student says he now has the feel of being on the international stage and now looks forward to the Tokyo World Championships in September.
"The FISU event, the city, and the people are lovely. You walk around and you start to feel like a celebrity.
"I have secured my spot in Tokyo, and hopefully, I will be competing against the same field."
Smith was in Europe as part of his preparations for the FISU Games, but now looks forward to resting before heading to Japan.
