Rudy Winkler

Rudy Winkler is a professional hammer thrower. The hammer throw is one of the oldest events contested at the Olympic Games, having roots dating back to the 15th century. While Rudy can throw a ball-peen hammer quite far, the Olympic Hammer is a bit different from the tools by the same name, consisting of a 16lb ball (9lb for women) attached to a 4ft steel wire and handle.

Rudy started his hammer throwing journey in 4th grade after his parents convinced their 5'10" 230lb son to start running track to lose weight. Little did they know, Rudy would immediately gravitate towards the throwing events, where it is celebrated to be a big person. 14 years, 4 inches, and 30lbs later, Rudy is the current American Record holder and #20 All-TIme worldwide with a throw of 82.71m (271ft). Along the way, Rudy has competed in the 2016 and 2020ne Olympic Games, the 2017 and 2019 Track and Field World Championships, and the 2019 Pan American Games. 

While not trying to chuck a medieval-like implement as far as he can, Rudy works as a Cyber Security Analyst and spends his free time outdoors and experimenting in the kitchen.