The Nicosia 2026 European Throwing Cup was – for many athletes – their first foray into the competition environment this year.
They emerged from winter training to see the fruits of their labour and here are some of the best quotes from the weekend.
"I am feeling great after winning the European Throwing Cup and, of course, achieving a new personal best of over 80 metres. I made several changes this year, and I am very pleased to see them reflected in this result.
“It is a new and exciting feeling to hold both the European lead and the world lead. For this summer, my goal is to compete for the podium at the European Championships in Birmingham and to aim for medals in every competition I take part in." Volodymyr Myslyvčuk (CZE), winner of the men’s hammer
"I’m feeling amazing about this win. It has been a long journey for me. I threw my personal best in 2019, so today’s result is the second-best performance of my career. I’m very happy and motivated to keep working and improving.
"I would also like to dedicate this gold medal to my fiancée. We got engaged just a week ago, so this makes the moment even more special." Daria Zabawska (POL), winner of women’s discus
“For the upcoming season (I) am aiming top 4 positions at the European Championships in Birmingham as well as a throw over 80 metres.” Ármin Szabados (HUN), men’s U23 hammer winner
“Winning at the European Throwing Cup with a throw of over 67 metres gives me great motivation as I look toward the European Championships in Birmingham. At the same time, I know there is always room for improvement, and with perfect conditions I believe I can throw beyond 70 metres." Steven Richer (GER), men’s discus winning with European lead with 67.29m
“Since there are no international competitions for the U23 category this summer, my focus will be on continuing to work hard, improving my technique, and becoming a better athlete. I would like to dedicate this medal to my friends and, of course, to my family for their constant support.” Helena Kopp (GER), women’s U23 shot put winner
“I thought that Cyprus would be sunny, so I was a little surprised that it was raining - but you have got to do what you have got to do and adapt to the circumstances. I think I did that well today. I kept my cool and competed well. I kept building on the competition, so I am very proud of that.” Patricia Kamga (SWE), winner of women’s U23 hammer
“This was my debut at the European Throwing Cup. I have always wanted to compete here, but in previous years there was usually a conflict between the European Throwing Cup and the major indoor championships. This year, however, I decided to try something new.
“Right now, I just want to put everything together and, most importantly, stay healthy, because I have struggled with injuries for many years. I know I’m capable of throwing far. I’m motivated, and I still want to keep pushing and improving.” Konrad Bukowiecki (POL), winner, men’s shot put