World Shot Put champion Valerie Vili has started her preparations for the Olympic Games in Beijing next summer. Despite a heavy schedule of training and work, she explains how she takes the time to help the fight against cancer.

“Well this month has been a quiet one for me. I’ve been training intensively in the gym and out in the Shot Put circle which has been great. Things have been pretty good so far my body is holding together pretty well and I am getting stronger week-by-week which is a great feeling. 

"My coach Kirsten and I want to get everything right in preparation for next year.

"Things are starting to wind down at Mcleans College where I work. The kids are almost finished for this school year. I’ve been putting this time to good use, cleaning up around the place, as I won’t be working next year (taking a year off to focus on the Olympics).

"I will be in Palmerston North on the 6th December speaking at a breakfast being held by the Cancer Society. With my Mum and Dad both passing away from Cancer, I try to do what I can to help the cause.

"I am considering competing on the 19th December (at the John Walker Night of Miles being held in Auckland) as a last blow out for the year before I head to New Caledonia with my husband Bertrand for Christmas and New Year. This will provide a guide to how my training is progressing.
 
"Apart from that I am all good and looking forward to Christmas. I’d like to wish everyone all the best and say thanks to everyone who has supported me over the last few years and also a special thanks to my dedicated coach for all her help and support over the last 9 years of my career.

"Until next time."

Val