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Natalia Kaczmarek wins gold and sets Polish record at European Athletics championships

10.06.2024 23:00
Natalia Kaczmarek became the European champion in the 400-meter run at the European Athletics Championships in Rome, clocking an impressive 48.98 seconds and breaking the Polish record previously held by legendary sprinter Irena Szewińska.
Natalia Kaczmarek.
Natalia Kaczmarek.Photo: PAP/Adam Warżawa

Kaczmarek, last year's world vice-champion, was a top medal contender at the competition held at Stadio Olimpico. In the semifinals on Sunday, she confidently secured her spot in the final with a time of 50.70 seconds. Her semifinal time was the third-fastest overall, behind Ireland’s Rhasidat Adeleke (50.54 seconds) and the Netherlands' Lieke Klaver (50.57 seconds).

In the final on Monday, Kaczmarek delivered a phenomenal performance, achieving a time of 48.98 seconds and setting a new Polish record. The previous record of 49.28 seconds had been held by Irena Szewińska since 1976. Ireland’s Rhasidat Adeleke won the silver medal with a time of 49.07 seconds, and Dutchwoman Lieke Klaver took bronze with 50.08 seconds.

Kaczmarek’s victory marked Poland's fifth medal at the championships in Rome.

(jh)

Source: IAR