This year’s Silesia Kamila Skolimowska Memorial is set to dazzle with an impressive lineup of Olympic medalists from the recent Paris Games, as it marks its 15th edition. Among the stars is world record pole vaulter Armand Duplantis, who expressed his fondness for the venue, stating, “Stadion Śląski is a special place, I feel great here.”
The event, scheduled in Chorzów, anticipates a crowd of about 40,000 spectators, setting the stage for thrilling performances. Natalia Kaczmarek, Poland’s sole Olympic medalist from the games, mentioned the unique thrill of competing at this venue, saying, “I always perform incredibly here. I have broken my personal record twice in a row at this venue.”
Ewa Swoboda, another Polish sprinter, plans to end her season with a 100m dash, aiming to repeat her personal best performance amid supportive home fans. “Our fans, if they give their all, can create a bigger buzz than the 80,000 in Paris,” Swoboda noted.
The Memorial also serves as a crucial qualifier in the Diamond League circuit, with this year’s final rounds due in Brussels mid-September. Last year’s event was ranked second only to the Diamond League finals in Eugene for its athletic achievements.
Attendees can look forward to seeing stars like Norway’s Jakob Ingebrigtsen, Dutch sprinter Femke Bol, and shot put champion Ryan Crouser from the USA. The meet will feature top athletes across various disciplines, including the entire Olympic podium for women’s 400m.
Piotr Małachowski, the sporting director, expressed his excitement about the quality of competitors, “We have again surpassed our expectations. You simply cannot miss this.”
Adding to the competitive spirit, the results will translate into points as per the World Athletics system, with the highest scorer receiving not only a cash prize but a unique diamond-encrusted signet ring, a first of its kind. Duplantis humorously remarked on the ring, “It would look good at home on my shelf.”
With the action set to begin at 2 PM and the Diamond League events starting two hours later, the 15th Silesia Kamila Skolimowska Memorial is more than just a meet; it’s a celebration of top-tier athletic prowess.