On a brisk Sunday afternoon, March 23, 2025, speedway fans across Poland eagerly anticipated a series of sparring matches, showcasing the talent and preparation of various teams in the lead-up to the racing season.
Among the most highly anticipated matches was the clash between KS Apator Toruń and Stelmet Falubaz Zielona Góra. KS Apator, fresh from a resounding victory over Hunters PSŻ in their first sparring match—dominating by a 22-point margin with a score of 56:34—braced themselves for a new challenge on familiar turf. However, they faced some hurdles as two of their key riders, Jan Kvech and Emil Sajfutdinow, were sidelined, stepping in their place were Nicolai Heiselberg and Grzegorz Zengota.
Meanwhile, across the country, Moonfin Malesa Ostrów prepared for their own bout against Polonia Piła. Despite forecasts of imminent rain threatening to postpone the match, it kicked off on time, much to the delight of the home fans. Ostrowian welcomed the visitors without a full squad, as Frederik Jakobsen, Luke Becker, and Norbert Krakowiak could not participate. Yet, in a twist of fate, this game marked the first opportunity for both teams to size one another up ahead of the season.
Match excitement was palpable, with Moonfin Malesa initially outpacing their opponents, largely thanks to bright performances from junior riders Filip Seniuk and Tobiasz Potasznik. The duo, especially in the second race of the day, notched a double victory that set the stage for a competitive afternoon. By the time the teams reached the seventh race, it was evident that it would be a tight contest, with Moonfin Malesa holding the lead.
As the event progressed, the momentum shifted. Polonia Piła, invigorated by their riders’ teamwork, responded firmly, securing races that brought them level with the hosts at 30 points each after the penultimate series. Both teams pushed their limits, showing determination and strategic racing under pressure.
Meanwhile, in a separate corner of the racing universe, Ultrapur Start Gniezno was gearing up to host H.Skrzydlewska Orzeł Łódź. Gniezno's situation was complicated, as they aimed to devise a robust strategy without key riders Adam Ellis, Sam Masters, and Adrian Gała—each competing internationally. However, they saw a glimmer of hope with Patrick Hansen guest riding for Gniezno.
As dusk began to settle, the spotlight turned to Oxford Speedway in Great Britain, where the Ben Fund Bonanza—an event dedicated to supporting injured riders—was set to unfold. Featuring star racers Maciej Janowski and Tobiasz Musielak, the event gathered momentum, promising an exciting lineup against international competitors like Jason Doyle and Fredrik Lindgren as they competed for a noble cause.
Returning to the match in Ostrów, despite an ominous start with precipitation threatening, the meeting proceeded smoothly. The competitive spirit heated up as races unfolded. An exhilarating second race saw Moonfin Malesa’s junior riders bringing the home team into a narrow lead. However, Polonia’s riders were not to be outdone, as they fought back diligently, evening up the scores multiple times throughout the competition.
Yet, as the day wore on, the 13th race would mark the end of the competition. The track conditions worsened significantly, leading to officials declaring it unsuitable for racing. Ultimately, Moonfin Malesa Ostrów emerged victorious with a narrow score of 40-38, thanks in part to notable performances from Paweł Sitek, accumulating nine points, and Sebastian Szostak, contributing eight to the team’s overall score. Noteworthy contributors on the visiting side included Adrian Cyfer with 7+1 points and Krzysztof Sadurski with 6+3.
With this weekend's sparring matches, teams not only aimed to put their training to the test but also sought to spotlight the camaraderie and competitiveness that make speedway racing an exhilarating sport in Poland. As the new race season looms, fans can look forward to thrilling competition and memorable matches ahead in both domestic and international leagues.
In summary, March 23, 2025, stands as a testament to the sport's resilience and dedication amid unpredictable conditions, highlighting the unwavering passion of teams and fans alike.
