Anthonett Nabwe Smashes African Hammer Throw Record with Historic 77.64m Launch at Drake Relays

DES MOINES — The athletics world witnessed a seismic shift in the women's hammer throw as Liberia’s Anthonett Nabwe delivered a performance for the ages at the 2026 Drake Relays. Representing the University of Minnesota, Nabwe unleashed a monster throw of 77.64 meters, obliterating the African Record and sending a clear warning to the global elite ahead of the summer championships.

In a display of rapid progression rarely seen in field events, Nabwe broke her own African Record of 75.72m, which she had set just five days prior in Florida. Her new mark of 77.64m is not only a massive Personal Best but also moves her to No. 2 on the NCAA All-Time list, trailing the legendary Camryn Rogers’ collegiate record by a mere 3 centimeters.

The Rise of a Global Contender

Nabwe’s series at the Drake Relays was a masterclass in technique and power. Her record-breaking throw came in the fourth round, drawing a thunderous ovation from the Des Moines crowd. The Liberian star has now officially entered the "77-meter club," a territory usually reserved for Olympic and World Championship medalists.

With this performance, Nabwe has transitioned from a collegiate standout to a legitimate gold-medal threat on the world stage. Her ability to peak and consistently reset continental records within a single week suggests that the 80-meter barrier—a feat only achieved by a handful of women in history—could be within her reach in the near future.