The Cup is awarded to the athlete deemed to have contributed the most to Olympic or Commonwealth sport throughout the year.

Adams has certainly accomplished this feat after recording yet another unbeaten season.

The New Zealander added a third World Indoor Championships gold medal with a World Leading throw of 20.67 metres in the Polish city of Sopot, before throwing her way to a third consecutive Commonwealth Games gold in Glasgow.

She also dominated the Diamond League Series, securing gold in all six meets that women's shot put was included.

Her victories pushed her unbeaten streak to 56 meetings, dating back to August 2010.

Valerie Adams secured a third successive gold at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow in July ©Getty Images



"This is such a privilege and honour and I am very humbled," said Adams, who was also named the International Association of Athletics Federations World Female Athlete of the Year.

"While it's been a difficult year for me this year, there have been some special highs along the way including the honour of carrying the New Zealand flag at the Commonwealth Games.

"Receiving the Lonsdale Cup is another highlight for me."

New Zealand Olympic Committee chief executive Kereyn Smith applauded Adams' commitment to youth and sport away from the competitive circle.

"Valerie's achievements inspire millions of New Zealanders," Smith said.

"Her success on the world's stage speaks for itself and her ability to remain at the top of her game is testament to her sheer determination to excel."

Adams previously won the Cup in 2006, 2007, 2011 and 2013.

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