Wlodarczyk sets world record in women's hammer

BERLIN (AP) Anita Wlodarczyk of Poland set a world record of 79.58 meters in women's hammer throw at the ISTAF athletics meet on Sunday.

The European champion and Olympic silver medalist beat the previous record set by Germany's Betty Heidler by 16 centimeters.

''It is a great feeling to finally improve the world record. I was aiming for 80 meters and I know I am able to throw it,'' said the 29-year-old Wlodarczyk, who set a previous world best in the Olympic stadium in 2009.

''This stadium brings me luck,'' Wlodarczyk said. ''Back in 2009, I also managed the world record and now it seems like my destiny.''

Heidler, who set the previous mark of 79.42 meters at Halle, Germany on May 21, 2011, finished second with a throw of 75.20.

''Anita's world record is not a surprise,'' Heidler said. ''She announced it beforehand. I have thrown a word record as well. No one will ever take this away from me.''

Heidler noted that the 80-meter mark had not yet been surpassed.

''That's something I still want to reach,'' the German said.

It was the 16th world record set at ISTAF in its 73rd edition.