Katzberg, who claimed silver four years ago in Birmingham, threw a Games record of 80.97m in the opening round of action at the EDF Scotstoun Stadium.

The 24-year-old beat Iosif Kesidis (CYP) into silver, with another Canadian Rowan Hamilton taking bronze.

The trio embarked on a lap of the stadium together after the result was confirmed, to share the special moment with the crowd.

“It was amazing. My arms were getting a bit tired from holding the flag,” Katzberg said. “The fans show so much support for the athletes, and being able to take photos, give high-fives and celebrate with them was an incredible feeling.

“It's a really exciting time for Hammer throwing because the standard is so high. It's quite a small community, and we're all pushing each other to be better.

“There's definitely a strong sense of community, especially in Canada, where we've got a lot of great throwers. It makes competing a really comfortable and enjoyable environment.”

Bronze medallist Hamilton, whose wife gave birth to their first child, a daughter, three weeks ago, was thrilled to be bringing home some extra luggage for the new arrival.

“The jet lag was nothing compared to having a newborn, but it's all worth it,” he said. “I'm just so excited to get home and see my little girl.

“These competitions are great for meeting new people, catching up with athletes you've known for years and seeing everyone's journey.

“We spend a lot of time together outside the circle waiting for our turns, so there's plenty of opportunity to get to know each other. “Being able to share those moments with other athletes is one of the best parts of competing.”
Ethan Katzberg

Young savours birthday

England's Thomas Young marked his 26th birthday with gold in the Men’s T38 100m for sweet redemption after a late injury forced him to miss Birmingham 2022.

“Now I can finally go and have some cake,” Young said. “I've been trying to be good, so no cake until now. My family's up in the stands as well, so we can go and have some cake and a drink together.

“It’s been tough. That injury four years ago changed my life. Missing my home Games affected the next stage of my career, and even by the Paris (2024) Paralympics I wasn't back to being my 100% confident self.

“It wasn't just physical, it was mental as well. It took a long time to get back into a good place mentally.

“Last year gave me a lot of confidence, and coming back this season has given me even more. I just can't put it into words.”

Young’s training partner, Sophie Hahn (ENG), claimed the first gold of the programme with victory in the women’s T38 100m.

Hahn took the title at Gold Coast 2018 but was second behind Olivia Breen (WAL) in Birmingham.

With events for athletes with an intellectual impairment included at a Commonwealth Games for the first time, Paralympic champion Ben Sandilands (SCO) thrilled the home crowd with a victory in the men’s T20 1500m.