Elina Tzengko the new European champion in women's javelin throw
Elina Tzengko won gold in women's javelin throw on Saturday night at the European Championships held in Munich, becoming the fifth Greek athlete to win gold or silver.
Tzengko threw the javelin at 65.81 meters, improving her personal record and becoming European champion at her very first appearance at a European Championships meet. The 19-year-old is the third Greek woman to become European champion in the sport since Anna Verouli (1982, Athens) and Mirella Maniani (2002, Munich).
Coming in second with silver was Serbia's Adriana Vilagos with 62.01 and third with bronze the Czech Republic's Barbora Spotakova with 60.68.
In comments after her success, Tzengko told national broadcaster ERT she was happy for the continuation of tradition in the javelin throw. Additionally, she said, "For me, it was a dream to compete next to Spotakova - I'm awed just to see her, she is my idol. I grew up with her, I used to watch her on TV, and I would say 'I will compete next to her'. This dream came true, I'm very happy."
Other Greek athletes who ranked among the top three European champions in Munich in individual events were Antigoni Ntrismpioti (2 golds in 20km and 35km race walking), Miltos Tentoglou (gold, long jump), and Katerina Stefanidi (silver, pole vault).
She was congratulated by the Greek prime minister and party leaders.
(Source: ana-mpa)
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