Valerie Adams speaks to Laureus
World and Olympic shot put champion Valerie Adams has been nominated for the Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year Award after her fourth straight year undefeated. In 2014, the New Zealander won all 14 competitions in which she took part, bringing her unbeaten streak to 56. She was named IAAF Women’s Athlete of the Year after winning all seven Diamond League events and gold medals in the World Indoor Championships and the Commonwealth Games
What does it mean to be nominated for the Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year Award?
I'm really honoured and humbled to be nominated and also very excited to be there for the Awards Ceremony amongst some of the most amazing athletes in the world.
What would it mean to you to win a Laureus Award?
Icing on the cake to what has been a tough year.
You are competing with five other Nominees - skiers Marit Bjørgen and Tina Maze, tennis players Li Na and Serena Williams and distance runner Genzebe Dibaba – what are your thoughts?
They are all fanastic athletes who are just on top of the world in their individual sports and I think they are all amazing.
Looking back to your amazing 2014, what is your best memory?
Best memory would be winning my third world indoor tittle and taking out the Diamond League finals with a world lead and meet record.
After so many undefeated competitions, do you feel that you just can’t lose?
It becomes a bigger challenge as I know the other girls are wanting to beat me which means I must always stay two steps ahead. Makes it exciting.
Why have you become so successful? What is the secret?
Hard work and determination to be the best in the world. It is my dream, and I am able to live and breathe it, which I am forever grateful for.
What did winning the IAAF Female Athlete of the Year Award mean to you?
It was so amazing to win this award not only as a shot-putter but as a thrower, as I believe it’s always hard for us to compete against the track athletes. This was just a perfect way to end my 2014 season.
What are your plans for 2015?
I am looking to defend my world tittle for a fifth time, along with staying unbeaten for as long as possible.
And Rio in 2016 – you will be two years older, but presumably still looking forward to another Olympic gold medal?
Rio is the major goal here and what I am working towards. It’s true age is catching up, but my fire and drive is bigger than ever and I shall fight with every ounce to be there ready to rock and roll.
Who are likely to be your main opponents?
Can never dismiss any athlete as Olympic year is always a special year as far as competition goes, but Europeans and Americans are always strong without underestimating the Chinese.
How and when did you start athletics?
I started when I was 14 through school athletics.
Who was your role model?
My role model is my darling late mother who passed away when I was 15-years-old. She was and is my everything and I always want to make her proud.
Do you have a strict diet and fitness regime?
Everthing in moderation, but over the years you know what you can and can’t consume.
Who has helped you in your climb to the top?
The dear Lord, as he blessed me with talent and genes, my mum, and the great support team around me, especially my amazing coach Jean Pierre Egger.
What are your interests away from athletics?
I love to garden and bake while I am home. I also love kids so much and hope to one day have my own.
