It all began with a fascinating opening ceremony – the traditional march of the teams, the Olympic oath of the participants and judges, and lighting the Olympic flame, which was delivered by drone from the sky to the ground.
There was also an artistic element to the Olympics, a dynamic laser show, a multimedia show, a concert by the cult band Piersi with their hit ‘Bałkanica’, and an impressive firework display.
Athletes competed in 10 disciplines in Karpacz, Jakuszyce, Cieplice, Sobieszów, and in the Czech town of Jabloniec (hockey). The Olympic village was located in Cieplice Spring park in Jelenia Góra. Every evening, in the huge Olympic tent pitched in Spring Park, Olympic medals were awarded. In the very same place, Poles from east and west were meeting, renewing old acquaintances and making new ones.
Interesting attractions offered by organisers alongside the sporting events included a theatre, thermal baths, crystal glass house, exhibitions, and museums.
They didn’t forget about the traditional Polonia Forum on matters of the Poles.
The biggest cause for concern was a lack of snow, because of the spring which came to Jelenia Góra valley. However, alpine disciplines were held in Karpacz at the foot of Śnieżka mountain, on perfectly prepared slopes. People were also working hard on Jakuszycka clearing to enable teams to take part in the biathlon and cross-country skiing.
We are really thankful to the organisers for their huge effort and financial outlays.
Apart from the serious competitions on ski trails, Nordic walking trails, ice rinks, and luge tracks, there were also funny competitions as a part of the Retro Olympics. Pulling horn sleighs, sawing wood, running with snowshoes in hands etc. Participants wore funny outfits, painted their faces and had a good time.
The team of Poles from Austria, which comprised 26 participants, was really successful. We represented ourselves very well in our plain national costumes, and were very active. (Polonia Forum, visits to an orphanage, integration evenings etc.)
We also achieved huge sporting success by winning 23 medals and taking 7th placing in team scoring.
However, sporting achievements weren’t the most important part of the Olympics. It was a great opportunity for Poles from around the world to meet and integrate. We discovered again our homeland and admired the beauty and advantages of Jelenia Góra valley. We will return along the trails of our memories and the moments that we shared with others.
We want to thank for the perfect organisation of the 11th Winter Olympics of Polish Communities.
Author: Janusz Pauli – coordinator and a regional representative of the Association “Swiatowe Igrzyska Polonijne – Polonia Austria” supporting and popularizing the World Olympics of Polish Communities in Austria. The coach and winter sports competitor of many years’ standing. Father of Arthur Pauli ski jumper of Austria National Team.