Today the World Harmony Run had the chance to meet with Beijing Olympic shot put gold medalist Valerie Vili and her wonderful coach Kirsten Hellier at their training HQ in Auckland. Not only did Valerie win in Beijing but she is also the world indoor and outdoor champion for 2008.

She also won New Zealand Sportswomen of the year and was the overall winner, while Kirsten won Coach of the year. So its no understatement when I say I was just a little anxious in meeting them. But they very quickly put me at ease with Kirsten commenting that it was a "great cause" and that they were very happy to lend their support and hold the torch making their statement for world harmony. Unfortunately it could only be a brief meeting as they were in the middle of a training session. Later in the week they were traveling to Australia for some tough international competition.

We wish them all the best!

– Buddhsamudra

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