Tom Walsh is refreshed heading into a new season, confirming to 1News he is locked in for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.
The 32-year-old failed to medal at last year's Paris Games, injuring his groin in the final.
"I still love throwing shot," Walsh said.
"I still think I can throw a long way, even further than I've already done. I think I can be competitive on the world stage. The plan is towards LA in 2028 now, piece by piece."
Walsh opening his season at the Sir Graeme Douglas International in Auckland yesterday, his first event in six months. His best throw was 20.86 metres, while Jacko Gill took out the title with 21.85 metres.
Gill says he's pleased with the result, given it's the start of his season.
"I'm stoked. I'm still in a little bit of a hard block but trying to train through and keep my strength for World Indoors, so I'm over the moon."
Gill said he wasn't planning on competing at the Sir Graeme Douglas International, but when he found out Walsh would be there, he couldn't pass up the opportunity.
The pair have a strong rivalry, but they also push each other.
"Me and Tom support each other a lot. We've been through a lot together and I just hope the best for him and I know he hopes the best for me. I love the competitive nature that we have."
In terms of Walsh's groin injury, he says he's pleased with the recovery.
"I've got through it really well. My numbers are kind of back to where they were prior to the injury. Body wise we're back there and it's just about time, getting back in the circle and making that ball go a long way."
Walsh admits the recovery period came at the right time. He and his wife welcomed their first child, a baby girl, in October.
"It's amazing to see my baby daughter grow and change quickly, and learn. It definitely makes going away a bit trickier for me personally."
Walsh will be pleased to have his next event, the International Track Meet in Christchurch next weekend, in his home town.
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