Adams began her athletics journey at age 14 after being spotted by New Zealand javelin thrower Kirsten Hellier during a school competition. She joined the Pakuranga Athletic Club in Auckland and has been training under Australian coach Dale Stevenson since 2020. Adams trains four days a week in Christchurch, New Zealand.

Injuries and Comebacks

Adams faced several injuries between 2013 and 2016, requiring surgeries on her knee, ankle, left shoulder, and right elbow. She missed the 2015 World Championships but returned to competition at the Auckland Track Challenge in February 2016. Earlier in her career, she underwent a shoulder operation in 2007 and had her appendix removed before the 2004 Olympic Games.

Achievements and Honours

Adams has been recognised with numerous awards. She was named Dame Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2017 and IAAF Female Athlete of the Year in 2014. She was also the New Zealand flag bearer at the 2014 Commonwealth Games. Adams received the Lonsdale Cup multiple times and won the Supreme Award at the Halberg Awards thrice.

Milestones

At the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, Adams became the first New Zealand shot putter to win an Olympic gold medal. She defended her title at the 2012 London Olympics. Adams also made history by winning four consecutive gold medals at the World Championships from 2007 to 2013. She holds a record for winning four gold medals at the Indoor World Championships.

Family Influence

Adams comes from a family of athletes. Her half-brother Steven Adams plays basketball for the Oklahoma City Thunder in the NBA. Two other brothers have played professional basketball in New Zealand. Adams has coached her younger sister Lisa Adams, who won a gold medal in Para athletics at the 2019 World Championships.

Personal Life

Adams gave birth to her second child in March 2019 and returned to competition in January 2020. She believes motherhood has brought balance to her life. Her mother passed away when she was 14, and her father died in May 2007. Adams dedicated her first world championship gold medal to her father.

Barbie Role Model

In 2020, toy manufacturer Mattel selected Adams as a Barbie Role Model, creating a one-off doll in her likeness. Adams expressed that this recognition helps young girls see themselves represented positively.

Athletes' Commission

In November 2019, Adams was elected deputy chairperson of the World Athletics Athletes' Commission, further solidifying her influence within the sports community.

Valerie Adams continues to inspire many with her dedication and achievements in athletics while balancing her roles as an athlete and mother.