Maciek, you win so much – is armwrestling still any challenge to you?
It might look easy from the side, but those victories come at a cost of hardcore, grinding work. I train 6 times a week, I diet, I go swimming and use regeneration sessions. I make a lot of sacrifices, some at the expense of my nearest and dearest. Winning still gives me joy and satisfaction, and motivation to keep on climbing the armwrestling ladder.
What motivates you the most?
The senior categories, because I have to put in a lot of effort to win in those. I have huge support from my friends, who help me along with their knowledge, time and effort to make me better all the more. I want to thank them all.
I think only Patryk Weterle is any serious competition to you at this point. Would you like some new challenger to arise?
In the disabled category, in my weight class, Weterle has a lot to say. But there is a new player - young and ambitious Dawid Łapa, who’s talented and very determined to fight. He shows progress from competition to competition; if he doesn’t let his guard down, he’ll make a great name for himself. Sports are all about new challenges, especially martial sports like armwrestling.
What do you think of your start in the Polish Championships?
I wanted very much to reach my goal, to win 4 golden medals – two in the disabled category, two in seniors. And I have. As I’ve mentioned, I’ve got a lot of people to thank for this, the whole atmosphere of my club, and our esteemed sponsor – “INSTALMET” Grudziądz. The maximum plan has been successfully executed.
Which fights would you say were the best?
As far as my fights go, I cannot say that any one was the best – I was acing according to my plan. The other fights I’ve seen are a comeback to great form by many fighters – like Sławek Głowacki, who’s done very well. I’m also happy for Piotr Święcicki, who’s won vice-champion of Poland in the masters category. I’m happy for my father, whom I train with, and who’s won two medals. He gives me a lot of time and attention in my training.
Iza Małkowska