Anthony Barmes

Event: Hammer

• Coach: Peter Miller
• Club: North Harbour Bays Athletics Club‍
• ‍Personal best: 72.66m (2026)‍
• ‍2024 MVC Field Performer of the Year‍
• ‍Drake University Hammer Throw Record Holder‍
• ‍University of Minnesota All-Time Top 5

Anthony Barmes is quickly becoming one of the most exciting names in New Zealand athletics. With a personal best of 72.66m this season, he is now within touching distance of the longstanding New Zealand men’s hammer throw record and firmly in contention for future major championship selection. Combining elite-level performance with creativity, personality, and ambition, Anthony is helping bring fresh attention to a niche event on the global stage.

Originally from Auckland’s North Shore, Anthony’s sporting journey began in a very different arena. Volleyball was once his primary focus before hammer throwing emerged as the path that would ultimately take him to the United States collegiate system. After developing through New Zealand age-group ranks, he earned a scholarship to Drake University, where he became one of the top throwers in NCAA Division I competition, earning All-American honours and breaking school records along the way. He now trains at the University of Minnesota under renowned throws coach Peter Miller, continuing to refine his technique and chase world-class distances.

“I’m beyond grateful to be chosen for this grant. As a proud Kiwi, I’m doing everything I can to make my country proud, and this support helps set me up to be in the best possible shape for the northern summer season, with the goal of competing at the Commonwealth Games.”

Anthony completed an undergraduate degree in marketing and is currently completing a Master’s degree while balancing elite sport and a rapidly growing online presence. Through his social media platform Anthony has amassed millions of views by combining humour, creativity, and hammer throwing — helping introduce the event to entirely new audiences around the world. Whether he’s throwing in competition or creating viral content, his goal remains the same: to inspire people, grow the sport, and proudly represent New Zealand on the international stage.

Click here to follow more of Anthony's journey on Instagram.