Natalia Kaczmarek electrified the tracks of Rome’s European Championships, surging to a historic victory in the women’s 400m final on Monday. The 26-year-old Polish sprinter shattered records, clocking in at an astonishing 48.98 seconds, securing gold in a breathtaking showdown against Ireland’s Rhasidat Adeleke, who finished closely behind at 49.07 seconds.
Kaczmarek’s strategic prowess was on full display as she initiated her assault right from the start, maintaining relentless pressure on Adeleke. She blazed through the first 200 meters in 23.59 seconds, closely trailed by Adeleke at 23.69 seconds. With Adeleke mounting a fierce challenge around the bend, the two athletes entered the final stretch neck and neck. Yet, it was Kaczmarek’s sheer determination that propelled her to victory in the last 50 meters, clinching not only the European Championships’ fastest time since 1996 but also eclipsing Irina Szewinska’s longstanding national record of 49.28 seconds set in 1976.
Reflecting on her historic achievement, Kaczmarek expressed her elation, stating, “Coming to the start, I was dreaming about the Polish record but this 48.98 was something more than my imagination. I was very well prepared for this and wanted to improve my run. I started pretty fast but the finish was very hard because there was a lot to fight for.”
In the men’s 400m final, spectators were treated to a riveting contest between Britain’s Charlie Dobson and Belgium’s Alexander Doom, the reigning world indoor champion. Ultimately, Doom emerged triumphant, setting a championship record of 44.15 seconds. Dobson showcased remarkable form, finishing closely behind with a personal best of 44.38 seconds, while Liemarvin Bonevacia of the Netherlands secured the bronze with a time of 44.88 seconds.
“I knew I had to start a little bit faster so I was focusing on that,” said Doom. “For the rest of the season, my goal is to try to get the medal with relays at the Olympics and maybe an individual one too. I am totally taped up so I was not even confident if I’d start the race because I was full of pain. And to finish the race like this, it’s just amazing.”
The European Championships also witnessed standout performances across various disciplines. Switzerland’s Timothe Mumenthaler stunned audiences with a gold medal victory in the men’s 200m, while Angelica Moser of Switzerland soared to victory in the women’s pole vault, equaling her national record. Additionally, Italy’s Sara Fantini thrilled the home crowd with a spectacular triumph in the women’s hammer throw.
With each event delivering moments of exhilarating competition and record-breaking feats, the European Championships in Rome continue to captivate audiences worldwide, showcasing the remarkable talent and resilience of athletes on the grandest stage.
