Silja Kosonen surprises herself with dominant hammer throw to reach European final

Finnish hammer thrower Silja Kosonen surprised even herself with a dominant performance in the European Championships qualifying round, launching a throw of 72.02 meters on her very first attempt. This impressive feat not only secured her a spot in the final but also established her as a strong favorite to win the competition.

“

Krista is a tough cookie. Not everyone could do that. I respect her a lot. I'm proud.

Kosonen, 23, demonstrated remarkable composure, even as the hammer clipped the net during her throw. She cleared the qualifying standard of 71.50 meters with ease, expressing relief at quickly advancing without the stress of further attempts. "It's best when you can get out of qualifying quickly," Kosonen remarked, recalling past championships where she had to endure anxious waits.

“

It's great to get to the final together with my friend.

Adding to the Finnish success, fellow thrower Krista Tervo, 28, also qualified for the final with a throw of 70.42 meters. Tervo's participation was in doubt due to a sudden back injury sustained a few weeks prior. Kosonen praised Tervo's resilience, calling her a "tough cookie" and expressing pride in her ability to overcome the pain and compete.

“

I looked a bit confused after the throw, but it's good. It's best when you can get out of qualifying quickly.

Kosonen feels she is in peak form and is confident heading into the final. "I feel like I'm in the best shape of my life," she stated, noting that the hammer's contact with the net but still traveling far was a positive sign. She anticipates strong performances in the final, provided her technique holds up. Her personal best from last season is 77.07 meters.

“

I feel like I'm in the best shape of my life. I heard how the hammer hit the cage. Still, it flew far. That bodes well. I'm confident.