In a stunning display of athletic prowess, Natalia Kaczmarek of Poland clinched the gold medal in the 400 meters at the European Athletics Championships in Rome, shattering a long-standing national record. Kaczmarek’s remarkable time of 48.98 seconds not only secured her the top spot but also broke the Polish record that had stood since 1976, previously held by Irena Szewińska with a time of 49.28 seconds.
Following Kaczmarek, Rhasidat Adeleke from Ireland took the silver with a time of 49.07 seconds, and Dutch athlete Lieke Klaver claimed the bronze, finishing in 50.08 seconds.
This victory marks a significant milestone for Kaczmarek, who previously won a silver medal in the same event at the European Championships in Munich two years ago. The versatile Dutch competitor, Femke Bol, who won the 400 meters in Munich, opted to focus on the 400 meters hurdles and the 4×400 meters relay this year, paving the way for Kaczmarek’s golden triumph.
However, it was not the only triumph for the Polish team. Fellow Polish athletes Justyna Święty-Ersetic and Iga Baumgart-Witan were eliminated in the semifinals on Sunday.
Kaczmarek’s achievement is a testament to her dedication and exceptional talent, cementing her place in Polish athletics history.