C.J. Hunter

C.J. Hunter (born Carlton Jerome Hunter on December 14, 1968) is a retired American shot putter. He is best known for winning the gold medal in the men's shot put event at the 1999 World Championships in Athletics held in Seville, Spain. Hunter was also a four-time U.S. National Champion in shot put.

Early Life and Education

Hunter was born in West Palm Beach, Florida. He attended Palm Beach Lakes Community High School where he first started competing in track and field events. He later attended Pennsylvania State University, where he continued his athletic career.

Career

Hunter's career in shot put began in earnest at Pennsylvania State University. He won the NCAA Men's Outdoor Track and Field Championship in shot put in 1990. After college, he continued to compete professionally, winning the U.S. National Championship in shot put four times (1995, 1996, 1998, and 2000).

His most notable achievement came in 1999 when he won the gold medal in the men's shot put event at the World Championships in Athletics in Seville, Spain. His winning throw was 21.79 meters, which was his personal best.

Personal Life

Hunter was married to Marion Jones, a former world champion track and field athlete and Olympic gold medalist. They divorced in 2002.

Controversy

In 2000, Hunter tested positive for the banned anabolic steroid nandrolone. He retired from athletics shortly after the scandal.

Legacy

Despite his controversial end to his career, Hunter's achievements in shot put have left a lasting impact on the sport. His gold medal win at the 1999 World Championships remains one of the highlights of American track and field history.