Magic Majewski retains shot put title

Poland's Tomasz Majewski became the first thrower in almost 60 years to retain the Olympic shot put title here on Friday as he won the first athletics gold medal of the Games. The 30-year-old threw a season's best of 21.89 metres to beat Germany's world champion David Storl, who had a best of 21.86 metres, while Reese Hoffa of the United States took bronze with 21.23 metres. Majewski emulated the feat of American Parry O'Brien, who won successive titles in 1952 and 1956. The Pole had thrown a season's best of 21.72 metres in the first round but it was only good enough for third spot behind Storl. The 22-year-old German upped the pressure with a throw of 21.86 in the second round but the Pole reacted in champion style by moving into the lead with another season's best effort of 21.87 metres. He was never headed after that and finished off in style with his 21.89 metres throw.