Virgilijus ALEKNA

Following in the footsteps of Romas Ubartas, Alekna became Lithuania's second Olympic champion, also in the discus throw. Ubartas, also present in Sydney, saw Alekna defeat titleholder and then quadruple World Champion Lars Riedel. Alekna's second title was less glamorous. He initially was awarded a silver medal, but was moved up one position when the winner, Hungary's Róbert Fazekas, refused to provide a urine sample and was disqualified. In addition to his two Olympic titles, Alekna has won the 2003 and 2005 World Championships, as well as the 2006 European title. Outside of sports, Alekna works as the body guard of Lithuania's prime minister.

Personal Best: DT – 73.88 (2000).