Lithuanian discus thrower breaks oldest men's track and field record

Photo : Reuters

Lithuanian discus thrower Mykolas Alekna made history by shattering a world record that had stood unbroken for four decades at the Oklahoma Throws Series World Invitational meeting in Ramona on Sunday.

Alekna's remarkable throw of 74.35 meters surpassed the previous record set by Jurgen Schult in 1986, marking the longest-standing record in track and field, as reported by Olympics.com. Initially measured at 74.41 meters, Alekna's throw awaits official ratification by World Athletics.

Reflecting on his monumental achievement, Alekna expressed disbelief, stating, "It's hard to understand what I just did." The Lithuanian athlete, born on September 28, 2002, arrived in Ramona with a strong season record, boasting the longest throw and carrying immense momentum from his previous performances.

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At just 20 years old, Alekna had already made waves in the discus throwing scene, becoming the youngest athlete to surpass the 70-meter mark. His impressive track record includes two World Championships medals and the title of 2022 European champion.

Alekna's success also echoes his family legacy, as his father, Virgilijus, holds an Olympic record in the same discipline. The elder Alekna, a two-time world and Olympic champion, set a standard of excellence that his son now continues to uphold.

Lithuania's prowess in discus throwing dates back to its early history in the sport, with Romas Ubartas achieving European and Olympic success in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Since then, Lithuanian athletes have consistently excelled in the discipline, accumulating numerous Olympic, World, and European championship medals.

Alekna's record-breaking feat adds another illustrious chapter to Lithuania's rich tradition in discus throwing, highlighting the remarkable achievements of a nation with a population of just over three million.

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