Lisa Misipeka

Only global medal owner of tiny Pacific Island, American Samoa. Three-time Olympian.

Born in Californian town Torrance from Samoan native father Fancy and German-American mother Barbara. Took a athletics scholarship in University of South California, the school graduated in 1998.

In 1999, she secured a World Championships medal, first time ever for her country outside of Oceanian-based events. Throws 66.06 in Seville, taking World bronze by only 20 centimetres from fourth-placed rival. Same year she broke South Pacific Games records both shot put and hammer.

She won two-time NCAA titles during college years. Competed Atlanta, Sydney and Athens Games, best Olympic finish came in Australia with 14th place. She runs Beyond Today Sports Institute in California to help college athletes to fulfilling their dreams.

PERSONAL BESTS

HT: 69.24 (2003)

SP: 16.02 (1997)

DT: 51.76 (1997)

TRIVIA 

♦ Flagbearer of American Samoan Olympic Team in Athens 2004 Opening ceremony.

♦ Doing motivational speech in Universities.

♦ Married with two children.

♦ University of South California hall of famer.