DUSHANBE, December 11, Asia-Plus -- In Asian Games history, with win in the men’s hammer throw competition Tajikistan’s 24 year-old hammer thrower Dilshod Nazarov has entered his country’s history books after he secured gold at the Khalifa Stadium, an official website of the 15 ^th Asian Games, www.doha-2006.com , reported.

Dilshod Nazarov claimed the first ever Asian Games gold medal for Tajikistan when he won an exciting men’s hammer final at Khalifa Stadium on Friday, December 8. 

Kuwaiti Ali Zenkawi led for most of the competition, producing his best effort in the second round with 73.14m.  But in round five, Nazarov launched the hammer to a mighty 74.43m, over five meters better than any of his previous throws, to propel him into the lead.  When Zenkawi fouled his sixth and final throw, the gold was Nazarov’s.  Japan’s Hiroaki Doi took bronze after a consistent series, which produced a best of 69.45m.

Afterwards, a delighted Nazarov said, "I waited for this. I have been preparing for this for a long time. I haven''t thought how to celebrate yet, but it will be tied in with the New Year. This is a big victory for my country.  It is the first gold medal we have ever won at the Asian Games in any sport."