Seventeen-year-old Jinaye Shomachuk is a currently 18th place in the world in the hammer throw.
Shomachuk has been competing since she was nine years old, starting as a runner and then moving into shot-put, discus and hammer – her best event. She has been nominated twice for Alberta’s Female U18 Athlete of the Year.
“Being given recognition for something I consider my craft is unlike any other feeling,” she says.
Shomachuk holds two Alberta School Association records in discuss and shot-put and holds 16 total provincial records. She has also medalled in international competitions.
She says although she has tried playing team sports like soccer and volleyball, she prefers individual sports because “there is a different kind of strength that comes from relying on only yourself.”
“At the end of the day, it really comes down to my own determination and love for throwing that makes me successful,” she adds.
Dorothy Smith, retired counsellor at Bert Church High School, nominated Shomachuk for the award, saying she is an athlete who embodies all of the positive qualities one looks for in a hero or a role model.
“I am so impressed with her commitment to everything she does and her kind and respectful manner. She is modest but aware of her abilities,” says Smith.
“She is a strong academic student and a world-class athlete but maintains a balance in her life. She understands very well the value of hard work.”