Olatoye vows to return stronger after C’Wealth setback

Nigerian hammer thrower Oyesade Olatoye expressed disappointment after finishing eighth in the women's hammer throw final at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. Despite a strong preparation phase, Olatoye struggled to find her rhythm on the day, ultimately unable to challenge for a medal in a high-quality final dominated by Canada's Camryn Rogers, who set a new Games record.

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I think my preparation for this competition was really great. Honestly, it was just my rhythm that was off. Everyone is in the weather, so I don’t like to use excuses. I just wasn’t able to get a throw out. I had two throws in the cage that felt pretty good, so it’s a little disappointing, but I know it’s there and there’s more to come.

Olatoye, who recorded a best throw of 63.27m, acknowledged the challenging wet conditions that affected her grip on the hammer and balance within the ring. "Having the grip on the hammer and having our hands being wet throughout the competition isn’t the best. The ring is flooded with water, so it makes it tough to really have that grip throughout the ring as you’re pushing forward," she explained.

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Having the grip on the hammer and having our hands being wet throughout the competition isn’t the best. The ring is flooded with water, so it makes it tough to really have that grip throughout the ring as you’re pushing forward.

Despite the outcome, the 29-year-old athlete remains motivated and proud of her season's efforts. She views the experience as further motivation for future competitions. "I would have loved to finish with a medal because that’s always the goal, but I’m going to take some rest and reboot for next season," Olatoye stated.

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I would have loved to finish with a medal because that’s always the goal, but I’m going to take some rest and reboot for next season.

With the Commonwealth Games concluded, Olatoye plans a short break before commencing preparations for the next season, which includes the 2027 World Championships and the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. She emphasized that knowing a podium finish was within reach has strengthened her resolve, stating, "I think it’s motivation. Knowing that the top three were definitely within range of what I could do, it motivates me. I don’t hang my head. I’m proud of Nigeria, all the supporters and everyone who has been cheering us on. I’m excited and ready to get back to work."

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I think it’s motivation. Knowing that the top three were definitely within range of what I could do, it motivates me. I don’t hang my head. I’m proud of Nigeria, all the supporters and everyone who has been cheering us on. I’m excited and ready to get back to work.