Jan Ząbik on the Golden Szczakiel: I didn’t believe something like this would happen to me

The ninth edition of the PGE Ekstraliga Gala is behind us, during which the best speedway riders of the season were honored. In addition to the awards subject to voting, the Golden Szczakiel is also awarded for special merits. In 2024, it was awarded to Jan Ząbik.

Jan Ząbik, by winning the Golden Szczakiel award, has thus joined the prestigious group that includes Jerzy Szczakiel, Tomasz Gollob, Jarosław Hampel, Marek Cieślak, Roman Jankowski, Zenon Plech, Piotr Protasiewicz, and Tony Briggs. How did Ząbik react to his statuette? – I was simply stunned. I didn’t believe something like this would happen to me, but I see that perhaps the fact that I have been in this sport for sixty years has been appreciated, so once again, I thank the Ekstraliga, and above all, the fans – said the long-time coach of KS APATOR in an interview with us.

What brings the greatest joy to such an experienced coach in his work? – I love children and like being with them, because I could lead the whole team, but it’s not about that, it’s about teaching them to ride from the youngest age and the satisfaction from seeing them win later – says Ząbik.

KS APATOR Toruń, for the second consecutive year, won bronze medals in the PGE Ekstraliga, defeating EBUT.PL STAL Gorzów, as well as overcoming many challenges faced by the entire team throughout the season. What is the goal for next year? – In the last two years, we have two bronze medals. Now we have to dream of a higher color – summarized the 78-year-old.

Marcin Rusewicz