PRESS RELEASE – While much of the attention was on the track during the 2017 GTFA Guam National Championship meet, history was being made in the shot put ring.

Guam National Team member Genie Gerardo broke the 20 year old Women’s Guam National record for the Shot Put, with a throw of 11.09 meters, at Saturday’s championship meet. The prior record of 11.02 meters was set by Tawna Rivera in 1997.

“I was just focused on getting my technique down,” said Gerardo about her record setting throw. “Perseverance and hard work pays off,” she added.

Gerardo is the lone female thrower amongst the Guam contingent competing in the Oceania Athletics Championships. “I’m excited and nervous,” said Gerardo, “I know I will be competing against the top throwers.”

Guam will be sending 12 athletes to the championships, which take place June 28-30 in Suva, Fiji. Athletes from the Pacific region, as well as Australia and New Zealand are scheduled to compete.