By David Di Somma
Olympic shot put champion Valerie Adams has been one of the main attractions at a meet in Christchurch where she has gone up against another sporting star who also has ambitions of glory at the London Olympics.
The prospect of New Zealand's two world class shot putters, Jacko Gill and Valerie Adams going head to head saw around 3,000 spectators at this afternoon's international track and field meet in Christchurch.
Gill warmed up by winning the discus competition, with his best effort sailing over the 60 metre mark.
After two sub-par efforts Adams sought the advice of her coach Jean Pierre Egger, advice that seemed to work as her next throw was over the 20 metre mark - her first of the competition.
The presence of the two greats added spice to a track meet that was cancelled last year because of earthquake damage to the venue.
The timing is interesting too - it was 50 years yesterday that Peter Snell broke the world 880-yard and 800-metre records on the grass in Christchurch.
As it turned out Gill took out the contest, with his best a last round 22.06 metres compared to Adams’ 20.35.
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