Weißhaidinger takes a relaxed view of his chances ahead of Discus European Championships

Form and starting position

A mood-booster could be his reunion with his training partner Will Dibo. Dibo is one of the most consistent throwers on the international scene this season. Weißhaidinger has trained against him in training duels on several occasions, and joint sessions are regarded by both as a benchmark. „Wenn ich ihr was beibringen kann, dann so lange zu kämpfen, wie es geht, wenn man für etwas brennt“, said Weißhaidinger with a view to the attitude he wants to call upon in competition.

The background to his sober planning of the season is also the fact that the throwing circles of the continental scene in Europe work differently from those in the USA. In England, discus throwers often face changing wind conditions and cooler temperatures, which affects distances. Weißhaidinger is aware of these variables and adapts his competition tactics accordingly.

Why Ramona is off the table

Another item on the agenda has already been ticked off by the ÖLV record holder: the wind-favored field in Ramona (Oklahoma) is not on his personal calendar. Numerous personal bests and national records are set there every year. However, competing there is out of the question for Weißhaidinger – the travel, the logistics, and his season plan argue against it. Ramona as a stop is therefore out.

His season strategy instead focuses on clearly defined highlights. Birmingham is the next big block, after which attention turns to possible further international appearances. Weißhaidinger emphasizes that he wants to orient himself around a few well-planned competitions rather than taking on every available stop.

In training, he continues to work on his throwing technique. The focus is on the release position, the acceleration in the ring, and the release angle. Small adjustments are meant to bring the next step. „Man brennt für etwas, und dann kämpft man so lange, wie es geht“, he said of his attitude.

Technique and season plan

He considers himself ready for the European Championships in Birmingham. His physical condition is good and his nervousness is limited. His aim remains to get close to his personal best with a clean throw. If he manages that, his starting position for the further rounds would be intact.

He is satisfied with the course of the European season so far, even if individual results fell short of expectations. His self-confidence is fed by his surroundings, his preparation, and his confidence in his own technique. „Wenn ich ihr was beibringen kann, dann so lange zu kämpfen, wie es geht, wenn man für etwas brennt“, he repeated his attitude.

Regardless of the outcome of the European Championships, he plans to compete in selected competitions in the second half of the season. A possible start at a World Championships dress rehearsal is on the table. One thing is certain: Ramona remains a non-issue for him. His focus is on Birmingham and what comes after.

The draw for the European Championship groups will show which opponents he will face in qualification. Weißhaidinger takes it as it comes. „Kann so oder so ausgehen“ – these words are symbolic of an athlete who knows his chances but leaves the last word to the competition.