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Masters athlete Evaun Williams stole the spotlight at the recent Outdoor Masters Championships, winning gold in multiple throwing events and setting four new world records.

Evaun’s athletic journey began in 1987 when she started as a 200m sprinter with Haringey Athletics Club. After a tendon injury at the World Championships in Oregon, she pivoted to throwing events and has since become a powerhouse in the W85 category, now at age 86.

Lee Valley Athletics Centre has been instrumental in her success, providing year round access to both indoor and outdoor facilities, as well as specialised equipment for throwing events. Evaun also takes part in weekly Fitness Classes such as Body Conditioning and Circuit Training, alongside her throwing training with regular gym sessions.

“This venue has been very important to my success by having both indoor and outdoor facilities allowing me to train all year round. It also has all of the equipment and throwing implements I need to train for my events. 

“All of the staff are extremely friendly and helpful and are always assisting me whenever I need help. Lee Valley Athletics Centre is a base for my club (Enfield & Haringey AC) so I get to train with and around my fellow club members. 

Evaun also credits the GLL Sport Foundation for easing the financial burden of training, letting her focus on competition. “The Foundation has allowed me to train without worrying about paying for entry, which means I can put that money toward travel expenses for competitions.”

At the championships, Evaun won gold in Shot Putt, Javelin, Discus, Hammer Throw, Weighted Throw, and the Throws Pentathlon. But for her, it was about more than the medals—it was also about reconnecting with friends. “It was great to compete with my friends again,” she said.

When asked about the secret to her success, Evaun replied, “Determination—no, make that bloody mindedness. I have a willingness to succeed and achieve the best I can. I do not worry about Legacy, I only think about my next performance and how I can improve. I have daily involvement from my coach John Waugh. Even on days when I'm not training, he will call to check up.”

Looking ahead, Evaun is setting her sights on the Indoor World Championships in Florida next March, where she plans to break her own indoor records.

Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance and passion. Ready to follow her lead?

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