An Olympian who throws a heavy ball is typically a competitor in one of the throwing events in track and field, most notably the hammer throw or the shot put.

• Hammer throw involves throwing a heavy metal ball (the "hammer") attached to a steel wire and grip. The men's hammer weighs 7.26 kilograms (16 pounds), and the women's hammer weighs 4 kilograms (8.8 pounds). Athletes spin multiple times in a throwing circle to gain momentum before releasing the hammer for maximum distance. This event is part of the Olympic Games and requires strength, balance, coordination, and technique

• Shot put involves "putting" (throwing) a heavy spherical ball called the shot. The men's shot weighs 7.26 kilograms (16 pounds), and the women's shot is slightly lighter. Shot put has been an Olympic event since 1896 for men and 1948 for women. It also demands great strength and technique to throw the shot as far as possible from a throwing circle

Therefore, an Olympian who throws a heavy ball can be a hammer thrower or a shot putter, both of whom compete by throwing heavy balls in their respective events at the Olympic Games.