Sunday, May 18th, 2025, I lined up for the Challenge Championships in Šamorín, Slovakia — set in the incredible X-Bionic® Sphere sports complex. I finished in 5th place, proud of my effort and the experience gained. But beyond the result, this race will stay with me for the harsh weather conditions and the emotions I went through.

We often prepare for a race with a well-defined plan, a set rhythm — but sometimes, nature has other ideas. With both the air and water temperatures at 11°C, the swim was shortened from 1900m to just 750m. We dove into the icy Danube River and, honestly, it felt more like a winter plunge than the start of a race. I don’t say this often, but I really didn’t enjoy that swim.

Swimming in such cold water was a real challenge. The key was to focus on deep, calm breathing and to stay as relaxed as possible, even when every muscle felt like it was cramping. That really helped me get through it.

Picture Challenge Championships Samorin, Bartek Syta

The first transition was a real challenge — with frozen fingers, I struggled to take off my wetsuit. I took a few extra seconds to throw on some additional layers for the bike, hoping to stay warm and save a bit of energy. One of those moments you’ll laugh about later… but at the time, it definitely wasn’t funny!

Once on the bike, I found my rhythm and braved the wind and rain for the 90km. I stayed focused on my effort, gave it my all and trusted all the work I’d done beforehand.

The running was very varied – between grass, sand, asphalt and cobblestones, it gave another dynamic to the effort, I really enjoyed it. I had a great duel with another athlete, fighting for every place, every second.

I crossed the finish line in 5th position and that was a real relief. I left everything on the course. It’s these races that remind us why we do sport: not just for the results, but for the resilience, the mental strength and the intensity of the moment.

It was also with great admiration that I was able to cheer on the “Special Olympics” athletes who came to defend the European title. It was simply inspiring to see these athletes with intellectual disabilities jumping into the water, then cycling and running without giving up, with a smile on their faces every step of the way!

A huge thank you to my parents and my brother for making the trip to support me — having them there gave me extra strength when I needed it most. On top of that, my brother, who’s a bike mechanic, prepared my bike before the race. I’m really lucky to be able to count on his skills and to race on a perfectly tuned and ready bike.

This race also marked the start of my European season. Arriving in Šamorín straight from China, it was the perfect opportunity to test my form before heading into the final build for Challenge Roth on July 6, 2025.

A huge thank you to Challenge Family for everything — from the organization to the unforgettable race experience, and the incredible support! And to top it all off — such a pleasure to meet the legend Bob Babbitt in person and to take part in his show Breakfast with Bob. Watch the full interview here!

Picture Bob Babbit

Days like this are a reminder that no matter how well prepared you are, racing can always surprise you. The key is to stay adaptable — and to give your best, no matter the circumstances.

A big well done to all the athletes present – the race conditions were particularly tough, and every finisher had to battle the elements to cross the finish line. You can be proud of yourselves for braving these extreme conditions… it’s a race you won’t soon forget!