London, Aug 7 (IANS/RIA Novosti): World silver medalist Nadzeya Ostapchuk of Belarus won Olympic gold in the women's shot put Monday.
Ostapchuk posted a winning distance of 21.36 in the third round, with defending champion Valerie Adams of New Zealand taking the silver after throwing 20.70.
Evgeniia Kolodko of Russia snatched the bronze on her last attempt with a personal best 20.48.
Former world bronze medalist Lijao Gong of China was pushed off the podium despite throwing 20.22, a season's best.
Ostapchuk signalled her intent with a second-round throw of 21.31. Adams responded with 20.70 before the Belarusian extended the mark to 21.36.
Under pressure, Adams fouled her next two attempts by stepping on the board in the circle. Adams put in a tired final attempt of 20.24, sealing Ostapchuk's gold.