A Lithuanian discus thrower who won two Olympic gold medals and is a four-time World Champion, holding the third-longest discus throw in history.
Virgilijus Alekna is a name synonymous with excellence in discus throwing, with a storied career that boasts two Olympic gold medals and a plethora of other accolades. This Lithuanian former athlete has left an indelible mark on the world of athletics, and has since transitioned into a successful career in politics.
Alekna's athletic prowess is undeniable, with a personal record of 73.88m (242ft 4in) in the discus throw, a mark that has only been surpassed by a handful of athletes. He won his first Olympic gold medal at the 2000 Sydney Olympics, and followed it up with another gold at the 2004 Athens Olympics. He also clinched a bronze medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
Alekna's impressive athletic career has been recognized with numerous awards, including the title of Athlete of the Year for 2000 by Track and Field News, and the Order of the Lithuanian Grand Duke Gediminas by the government of Lithuania. He has also been crowned the Lithuanian Sportsman of the Year four times (2000, 2004, 2005, and 2006).
In 2007, Alekna was appointed as a UNESCO Champion for Sport, a testament to his commitment to promoting sport as a means of social change and development. This prestigious honor is a reflection of his dedication to using his platform to make a positive impact on society.
Alekna's transition into politics was a natural progression, given his passion for serving his country and community. He was elected to the national parliament, the Seimas, in 2016, and has been actively involved in shaping policies that benefit the people of Lithuania.
Alekna is married to former long jumper Kristina SablovskytAleknien, and the couple has two sons, Martynas and Mykolas, who are also discus throwers. In fact, Mykolas has gone on to set a new world record in the discus throw, a testament to the strong athletic genes in the Alekna family.
Virgilijus Alekna's legacy extends far beyond his impressive athletic achievements. He has inspired a generation of athletes, and his commitment to using his platform for good has made a tangible impact on his community and beyond. In 2017, he was awarded the European Athletics Lifetime Achievement award, a fitting tribute to his enduring contribution to the world of athletics.
Virgilijus Alekna's remarkable story is a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and a passion for making a difference. As an athlete, politician, and humanitarian, he continues to inspire and leave a lasting impact on the world.
47 Years Old
Estonian athlete who won Olympic gold and multiple World Championship medals in discus throwing, setting a world record in 2006. Known for his exceptional technique and consistency.
54 Years Old
A Lithuanian discus thrower who won two Olympic gold medals and is a four-time World Champion, holding the third-longest discus throw in history.
41 Years Old
A dominant force in discus throwing, capturing Olympic and World Championship titles, and known for his energetic celebrations and iconic hairstyles.
58 Years Old
German discus thrower who won gold at the 1996 Summer Olympics and set multiple world records in the 1990s.
53 Years Old
Estonian discus thrower who won Olympic bronze and multiple European Championship medals, setting national records in the process.
Born in 1908
Czech shot putter who won several national championships and set multiple records in the 1940s and 1950s, earning him a place in the Czech Athletics Federation's Hall of Fame.
