Ryan Crouser is a well-known figure in the sport of shot put, having successfully defended his title at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021. Despite facing a series of injuries this year, he managed to secure a gold medal at the U.S. Olympic trials in Oregon, giving him the opportunity to make history in Paris as the first man to win three gold medals in shot put.
Apart from his rigorous training and nutrition regimen, Crouser credits his dog, Koda, for helping him stay mentally focused. Koda, a Labrador, has been a part of Crouser’s life for nearly two years and serves as a source of constant enthusiasm and support during his workouts. According to Crouser, Koda’s unwavering love and companionship help him separate his athletic performance from his self-worth, a struggle many athletes can relate to.
As a professional athlete, Crouser acknowledges the challenges of measuring success in track and field, where performance is easily quantifiable. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy sense of self-worth independent of athletic achievements, a lesson he learns from his beloved pet. Through his partnership with pet nutrition brand Nulo, Crouser joins a group of elite athletes, including Simone Biles and Caeleb Dressel, in celebrating the bond between athletes and their pets on their journey to the top.
With a stellar career that includes multiple world championships, NCAA titles, and Olympic gold medals, Crouser is now eyeing a historic third gold in the men’s shot put event at the upcoming Paris Olympics. His remarkable achievements in the sport, coupled with his unique bond with Koda, showcase the multifaceted nature of success and the importance of finding sources of inspiration and support beyond the track field.
As fans eagerly await Crouser’s performance in Paris, his story serves as a reminder of the power of companionship, determination, and resilience in the face of adversity. Whether he clinches another gold medal or faces setbacks, one thing is certain – Koda will be by his side, cheering him on every step of the way.
