XXII European Armwrestling Championships
13th-20th May 2012, Gdansk - Poland

2o arms of titans form Jaworzno will take off at the European Championships. They will fill women, men, junior, senior and “a little older” and disabled classes. Their boss - Mariusz Grochowski will take off in senior -110 kg class and will be the captain of our National Team during the tournaments in Gdansk. Just 11 days before the tournaments we are talking to Mariusz about how he sees the incoming competitions.

Hi Mariusz! There will be a group of “Titans” among the National Team for the European Championship. What are your predictions for particular players? Who will do best in Gdansk?

Mariusz Grochowski: It’s hard to foretell who will do best. They have already presented high level, and they are constantly increasing the shape and improving their technique. If we are lucky, there is a chance for us to get a few medals.

Is the fact that the event is taking place in Poland mobilizing for competitors?

Mariusz Grochowski: It is for sure! We will be “at home” so there’s much less stress and we should be much more confident with our own audience.

What about your preparations? What ‘s your shape in comparison to previous seasons?

Mariusz Grochowski: My preparations are going in a good direction. My attitude is positive although this will be my first start at such in such a high class at the Euroarm. What I am the most afraid of is are the bigger hands of my opponents. If it’s about the strength I’m in a good shape.

Do you have any special motivation to show your best side in Gdansk, in your home country?

Mariusz Grochowski: There will be many of my supporters so I’d like to show them my best side. But I also have something to prove myself.

Who will the most threatening rival in your class?

Mariusz Grochowski: I have no idea. I’ll be observing my opponents carefully and try to detect their weak sides to be able to attack them.

Do you think if they will be special tournaments for our team?

Mariusz Grochowski: The level of the Polish players is increasing from year to year and we’ve already been winning medals. I believe these will be the most successful European Championships for the Polish players.

Will our organization be able to make an impression on the foreign visitors.

Mariusz Grochowski: The Poles are applying themselves to such events so I’m sure everyone will be positively surprised.

What do your preparations look like a few weeks before the start?

Mariusz Grochowski: My trainings are not so hard any more. Now I’m trying to keep fit and be conditionally prepared.

Thank you, and see you in Gdansk.

Mariusz Grochowski: Thank you, and all the fans are more than welcome.

PeSzy