“People train and prove that the impossible doesn’t exist,” says Karolina Kucharczyk-Urbańska, a multi-time Paralympic champion whose remarkable athletic achievements demonstrate that determination and passion can overcome any obstacle. With three gold and one silver Paralympic medals and a world record in the long jump for athletes with disabilities, she inspires both on and off the track. 

Karolina Kucharczyk-Urbańska once again struck gold at the Paralympic Games in Paris this year. Her impressive collection of accolades includes medals from the World and European Championships, as well as three Paralympics. Her first major victory came 15 years ago, marking the start of an extraordinary athletic journey centered on continuous self-improvement. 

Golden Moments in Front of Her Fellow Poles

The Polish champion highlights the importance of her compatriots’ support. Poles cheer her on not only in Europe but across the globe, from Brazil and Ecuador to Japan. They attend her competitions, engage with her, and ask for autographs. “Poles are everywhere, scattered all over the world,” she remarks. Karolina recalls a moment in New Zealand when a fan invited her team to her home after an event. “It’s an incredible feeling to know that wherever I compete, I can count on the support of our people,” she adds. 

Sport as a Path to a Life of Passion 

Although Karolina is now a symbol of success, her journey was far from easy. As a child, she faced challenges in special education and struggled with a lack of acceptance. “Kids would pick on people like me,” she recalls. She found solace in sports. “I would let it all out during training. It helped me release the negative energy. For me, it was a kind of escape,” she says. 

Her perseverance and love for competition gradually brought her success in various disciplines, ultimately leading her to a career in professional sports. “I didn’t give up, and I’ve been in professional sports for 21 years now,” she states proudly. 

Sacrifices, Discipline, and Mental Strength

The road to athletic success has required many sacrifices. Karolina emphasizes the importance of diet, planning, and clear goals. “Every athlete with a goal is disciplined,” she explains. 

Equally vital is mental preparation. “You need to get your head in order and work with a sports psychologist to avoid burnout,” she advises, acknowledging the immense challenge of staying at the top for 20 years. “Since 2016, I’ve managed to stay at the peak, and it’s incredibly tough,” she admits. 

Balancing sports with family life is also essential. “When I’m on the track, I think only about sports. When I’m at home, I feel like an ordinary Polish person working an eight-hour job,” she shares. 

Motivation Amid Challenges

Despite difficult moments, Karolina continues to dream of more medals. “I’ve always wanted to improve in my discipline, and I still do because I know I can, as long as I stay healthy. I want to keep winning medals for Poland. I want to hear ‘Dąbrowski’s Mazurka’ played [Poland ‘s national anthem]. Every medal I bring home to Poland is incredibly precious, and I’m proud of myself,” she declares.  

Cautious Yet Determined 

Although the champion is planning to compete in Australia and India next year and dreams of the 2028 Paralympics in Los Angeles, she remains grounded. “I don’t know what will happen in two years. Today, there’s sport; tomorrow, it might not be there,” she says, appreciating every moment of her professional career. 

Family as the Foundation of Success 

Throughout her journey, Karolina has always relied on her loved ones. “My greatest support is my family – my husband and my son – because they believe in me, cheer me on, and when they watch me on TV or online during competitions, I feel their presence pushing me forward,” she says with gratitude. 

Karolina Kucharczyk-Urbańska is a shining example of an athlete who proves that the strength of spirit and the support of others can break down any barriers.

Family News Service