Amber Campbell isn’t your average hammer thrower. Hailing from Tucumcari, New Mexico, Campbell’s journey to Olympic heights and a place in the New Mexico Sports Hall of Fame is an inspiring story of dedication and perseverance.
Campbell’s athletic prowess started young. Remarkably, she qualified for the Class AAA State Track & Field meet in shot put and discus as an eighth grader! Throughout high school, she excelled in volleyball, basketball, and track & field, showcasing her well-rounded athleticism.
College at Coastal Carolina University saw Campbell truly flourish. She became a three-time Big South Athlete of the Year, a testament to her dominance in the hammer throw. Her collegiate career culminated in an impressive 11 national championships, solidifying her status as one of the nation’s best.
Campbell’s sights were set on the biggest stage: the Olympics. She qualified for the U.S. team an impressive three times, competing in the 2008, 2012, and 2016 Games. While she didn’t reach the finals in her first two Olympic appearances, her determination never wavered.
The 2016 Rio Olympics proved to be Campbell’s crowning achievement. She unleashed a throw of 72.74 meters, the best ever by an American woman in the hammer throw at the Olympics. This mark, just two meters shy of a bronze medal, cemented her place in Olympic history.
Campbell’s legacy extends beyond her impressive throws. She serves as an inspiration to young athletes in New Mexico, demonstrating that dedication and hard work can lead to achieving dreams on the world stage. Her induction into the New Mexico Sports Hall of Fame is a fitting tribute to a remarkable athlete who brought honor to her home state.