In Paris, Natalia Kaczmarek defended the honor of Polish athletics, being the only Polish athlete to bring home an Olympic medal in this discipline. She won bronze in the 400-meter race, finishing behind gold medalist Marileidy Paulino and silver medalist Salwa Eid Naser. Not everyone knows that our medalist balances her sports career with military service. In the program "Pobudka!" on Kanał Zero, she was asked how she manages to do this.
What Do Athletes Do in the Army? Kaczmarek Speaks Out: "Our Task Is..."
The runner didn't hide the fact that other Polish athletes are in a similar situation, and their duties in the military are somewhat different from those of active soldiers who go on missions or participate in exercises. "It's clear that we have a slightly different role. We largely perform representative functions. But I'm very proud of it because I believe it all ties together. Sports and the military have a lot in common—discipline, for example. I think it's a great combination. We are in what is called the 'army of champions,' which is the Central Military Sports Team, and it's made up entirely of athletes. Our task is to represent our country in international arenas and encourage others to join the military," she revealed.
Although these tasks are not as demanding, athletes receive compensation from the military, which allows them to prepare for competitions. Kaczmarek also discussed her current financial situation. "I'm not complaining. There are definitely more lucrative sports, but I think athletics in Poland is not in a bad place. There are certainly less profitable and less popular sports as well. I think if I went to work, I wouldn't earn as much as I do from running," she explained.
Kaczmarek also earned a significant amount from the Olympics. She received 150,000 PLN for her bronze medal, a diamond, and a vacation voucher. Additionally, she will receive a 55,000 PLN bonus from the Ministry of Sport and Tourism. Moreover, after turning 40, she will be entitled to the so-called Olympic pension.
