Bartosz Zmarzlik: this tournament did not go my way, I fought as much as I could

Before the final tournament of the Individual Polish Championships, Bartosz Zmarzlik was 3 points behind the leader, Patryk Dudek. Ultimately, he finished the competition in Lublin in 2nd place, with 13 points, which allowed him to take 3rd place on the IMP podium. After the competition, Zmarzlik immediately consulted with his team on equipment issues. He is known for paying great attention to details and his team is very professional.

– I spoke with the mechanics on the spot. These conclusions are sometimes the most valuable to be smarter tomorrow. However, it never guarantees anything, but you have to talk, consult, and draw conclusions – said Bartosz Zmarzlik.

The challenge for both the rider and his team was even more difficult because they had raced in Wroclaw the day before. Logistically, however, as the Individual World Champion admits, it was no problem or novelty for them. – We packed into a bus, went to the hotel, and at 2 AM we were in Lublin. We woke up and my whole team worked on the bikes to wash and assemble them. I also joined a bit later to do my job, basic things, bags, etc., and that’s how we prepared for the competition in Lublin – he explained.

Although the representative of ORLEN OIL MOTOR did not manage to win his fourth consecutive IMP title, he was pleased with the result, emphasizing that the competition had not gone his way from the start, making him even more glad about the final outcome. – Undoubtedly – every medal brings joy, especially after such a well-matched rivalry. I am satisfied with the result. This tournament did not go my way, I fought as much as I could. I crashed my best bike and had to rely on two others, which was also a kind of ‘va banque’ decision, but that’s speedway, you have to adapt to such conditions. We all wake up in the morning, have breakfast, drink coffee, and start the day anew, regardless of the previous day’s result. I am an athlete, I love riding a bike, competing. It’s obvious that in speedway there are many equipment and technical challenges, but that’s our role and job and we have to adapt – emphasized Zmarzlik.

In conclusion, Bartosz Zmarzlik, who usually represents ORLEN OIL MOTOR Lublin, thanked and appreciated the atmosphere created by the fans in the stands. – I felt this support, for which I am very grateful, because it is a really nice feeling when you bring joy to someone and fans cheer, as they did here in Lublin. Once again, thank you and we move on! – concluded the three-time Polish champion.

Alicja Labrenc