The city of Leiria in Portugal late last week played host to the Europa Cup in throwing events. The Cup is one of the most noted athletic events, early into the ongoing international season. Representing Romania were several top-flight athletes. Among them, four had proved their mettle in the 2020 edition of the Tokyo Olympics. They were hammer thrower Bianca Ghelber, javelin thrower Alexandru Novac, Alex Firfirica, competing in the discus throw and Rareș Toader, in the shot-put event. Of the Romanians, Bianca Ghelber, was the favorite to winning a top position, since in Tokyo she came in 6th, which was the Romanian delegation's best result. However, it was Alexandru Novac's turn to shine since this past Sunday he won gold, with a throw of 80 meters and 49 centimeters, Novac's best performance of the season. Alexandru Novac's noteworthy result in Leiria was reason enough for Radio Romania International to designate him the Athlete of the week.
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