Breaking Records at the European Race Walking Team Championships
In a remarkable display of athletic prowess, Italy’s Massimo Stano shattered the world record in the 35km race walk at the European Race Walking Team Championships held in Podebrady on Sunday, October 18. Stano, the reigning 2021 Olympic champion, clocked in at an astounding 2:20:43, surpassing the previous record of 2:21:40 set by Canadian Evan Dunfee in March by an impressive 57 seconds.
The Race Dynamics
Stano’s journey to this record was characterized by a strategic approach and remarkable endurance. He took the lead around the 23km mark, steadily increasing his speed to finish with laps under 4:00 per minute in the closing stages. A highlight of his performance came just 5km from the finish when he recorded a jaw-dropping 3:54 for his 30th lap. This remarkable surge not only signaled his dominance in the race but also solidified his confidence in achieving a world record.
As Stano approached the finish line, he actively engaged with the crowd, urging them to cheer him on. His seemingly effortless crossing of the finish line showcased both his physical conditioning and competitive spirit. In stark contrast, Christopher Linke of Germany earned silver with a national record of 2:23:21, while Spain’s Miguel Angel Lopez secured bronze with a new national record of 2:23:48.
Early Leaders and Strategy
Earlier in the race, Poland’s Maher Ben Hlima had set a strong pace, leading through the 20km checkpoint in 1:21:08, 34 seconds ahead of Stano. Despite this early lead, Stano’s strategic pacing allowed him to accelerate when it mattered most. By the time he reached the crucial 30km mark, he recorded a time of 2:00:57, clearly aware that a world record was in reach. His swift finishing pace proved decisive as he crossed the line in record-breaking time.
Women’s Race Features
Meanwhile, in the women’s race, Spain’s Maria Perez demonstrated her resilience despite a mid-race interruption for a toilet break, ultimately finishing first with a time of 2:38:59. This was a remarkable performance, albeit not quite matching her world record set on the same course two years ago of 2:37:15. Nevertheless, her time this year was still the fastest of the season and sufficient to see off 2021 Olympic 20km champion Antonella Palmisano, who made a stellar debut at this longer distance.
Breakthrough Performance from Palmisano
Palmisano put in a commendable effort, clocking in at 2:39:35—over two minutes faster than Italy’s previous national record. This placed her among the seventh women ever to break the 2:40 barrier in race walking. Despite the pressure of racing alongside Perez, Palmisano pushed through the late stages with determination, securing a strong silver medal.
Top Finishers and Personal Bests
Italy’s Nicole Colombi finished third, achieving a personal best of 2:41:47, while Hanna Shevchuk of Ukraine also made headlines by setting a national record at 2:42:41. The depth of talent in the women’s field was evident, highlighting the competitive nature of the sport at this European meeting.
McGrath’s Championship Triumph
Highlighting the men’s 20km event, Paul McGrath captured gold in a time of 1:18:08, just shy of his personal best. This win marked a significant achievement for the young athlete, who controlled the race from the 13km mark onwards, displaying maturity beyond his 23 years. His final laps averaged 3:50, showcasing an impressive turn of speed that solidified his victory.
Fierce Competition
In a fiercely contested race, defending champion Francisco Fortunato brought an extra burst of speed in the final stretch to finish second with a personal best of 1:18:16. Coming close behind him, Gabriel Bordier also recorded a personal best time of 1:18:23. The race was marked by numerous personal bests, emphasizing the high level of competition among the participants.
Continued Success and New Titles
Similarly, in the women’s 20km race, Lyudmila Olynavovska claimed her first major title with a time of 1:27:56. After accelerating at the 16km mark, she managed to pull away from Clémence Beretta, who finished with a personal best of 1:28:05. The race saw Olynavovska make a decisive move that ultimately led her to victory.
Conclusion of a Historic Day
With various national records shattered and thrilling competitions unfolding, the European Race Walking Team Championships delivered an unforgettable showcase of talent and resilience among elite race walkers, further highlighting the dynamic nature of this niche yet captivating sport.
