Sandra Elkasević established herself as the most successful female discus thrower in history by securing two Olympic titles, two World Championship gold medals, and an unprecedented seven European Championship victories. Born Sandra Perković in 1990 in Zagreb, she dominated the discipline across multiple decades while transitioning from a promising junior talent into a decorated senior international competitor.
Early Development and Junior Success
Athletics training began in the second grade for Elkasević, who initially balanced the sport with basketball and volleyball. By the 6th grade, she committed to shot put and discus, joining the Dinamo-Zrinjevac club in 2001. Under coach Ivan Ivančić, she saw rapid physical progression. A significant health crisis occurred in 2009 when a misdiagnosed appendicitis led to life-threatening sepsis. Despite losing 15 kilograms, she returned within three months to win gold at the 2009 European Junior Championships in Novi Sad, setting a national record of 62.44 metres.
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Her senior career accelerated in 2010 when she became the youngest European champion in the women’s discus throw at the Barcelona championships. She set her personal best and national record of 71.41 metres in July 2017 at the Galà dei Castelli meeting in Switzerland. Beyond her championship titles, she achieved success on the global circuit, winning seven Diamond League titles and prevailing in 46 circuit meetings throughout her career.
Doping Suspension and Institutional Recognition
In 2011, Elkasević served a six-month suspension following a positive test for the banned stimulant methylhexanamine, which she attributed to the consumption of an energy drink. Following her return to competition, she successfully defended her title at the 2012 European Championships. Her achievements earned her various honors, including the Dražen Petrović Award in 2009 and the Order of Duke Trpimir in 2017. She was additionally recognized as the BTA Best Balkan Athlete of the Year in 2016.
Political and Personal Context
Beyond the field, she served as a representative in the Croatian Parliament following the 2015 general election for the 8th Sabor, holding the position for less than a year. In 2023, she married Edis Elkasević, who also serves as her coach. She maintains proficiency in Croatian and continues to be categorized as a prominent figure in athletics.
Fast facts
- Born: 1990, Zagreb
- Sport: Discus throw
- Olympic Titles: 2012, 2016
- World Championship Gold: 2013, 2017
- Personal Best: 71.41 metres (2017)
- Parliamentary Service: 2015-2016
- Spouse: Edis Elkasević
- Languages: Croatian
Questions readers ask
What is the record distance of her career?
Her personal best and national record is 71.41 metres, achieved in 2017.
Did she hold political office?
Yes, she served as a member of the Croatian Parliament for the 8th Sabor starting in 2015.
Achievements
- Order of Duke Trpimir — 2017
- Competed at 2006 World Junior Championships in Athletics, 2007 World Youth Championships in Athletics and 2007 European Athletics Junior Championships
- Discipline: athletics
