Dame Valerie Kasanita Adams DNZM, renowned retired shot putter from New Zealand, has built an illustrious career in athletics and, in more recent years, in the world of acting. Valerie’s athletic achievements include four World champion titles, four World Indoor champion titles, two Olympic gold medals, three Commonwealth Games titles, and twice being the IAAF Continental Cup winner. Let’s delve into her personal life, acting career, and remarkable journey in athletics.
Valerie Adams Personal Life: Is She Still Married?
Valerie has experienced two marriages in her life. Her first marriage was with Bertrand Vili, a discus thrower from New Caledonia. They married in 2004, but decided to part ways in early 2010. After her first marriage, Adams found love again with Gabriel Price, a childhood friend.
Valerie Adams and Gabriel Price’s Marriage
Valerie and Gabriel tied the knot on April 2, 2016, in a beautiful ceremony held at Temple View in Hamilton. Together, they welcomed two children into their family, a daughter born in 2017, and a son. Unfortunately, in 2023, Valerie announced her separation from Gabriel after nearly seven years of marriage. As they navigate their separate paths post-separation, their focus remains on their children and the new journey each will undertake.
Valerie Adams’s Acting Career
In recent years, Valerie has transitioned to the world of acting. Her work in the film “Visa” has brought her recognition and accolades, showcasing her skills and versatility as an actress. At the age of 38 (as of 2023), she continues to enthrall audiences with her performances, bringing depth and authenticity to her roles.
Valerie Adams Athletics Career
Early Years and Ascension to Global Stage
Valerie’s journey in athletics began in 1998 when she met her coach Kirsten Hellier, a former javelin thrower. In 2001, she won the World Youth Championships with a throw of 16.87 m. The following year, she became the World Junior champion with a throw of 17.73 m and won a silver medal at the Commonwealth Games with a throw of 17.45 m. At the 2003 World Championships, 18-year-old Adams finished fifth. In her debut Olympics in 2004, she finished seventh.
Rise to Dominance
In 2005, Adams achieved a personal best throw of 19.87 m and earned a bronze medal at the World Championships. However, after the original winner, Nadzeya Astapchuk, was disqualified for a positive drug sample in 2013, Adams’ bronze medal was upgraded to silver. In the same year, Adams’ silver medal at the World Athletics Final was upgraded to gold. At the 2006 Commonwealth Games, Adams broke the 20-year-old record with a throw of 19.66 m, securing the gold medal.
Valerie Adams’s consistency in both indoor and outdoor competitions has solidified her position as one of the greatest shot putters of all time. Her exceptional throwing abilities are evident in her personal best marks of 21.24 meters (69.7 ft) outdoors and 20.98 meters (68.8 ft) indoors. These marks stand as Oceanian records.
Final Thoughts
Beyond her outstanding athletic achievements, Valerie Adams is known for her sportsmanship, dedication, and positive influence in promoting the sport of shot put and inspiring the next generation of athletes. Even in retirement, Valerie’s legacy continues to shine bright, and her impact on the world of track and field remains enduring. With her recent transition to acting, we are excited to see what the next chapter holds for her.
