Łoktajew Triumphs At The XXXVI Criterion Of Aces

In a thrilling season opener at the Polonia Stadium in Bydgoszcz, the XXXVI Criterion of Polish Speedway Leagues Aces unfolded on March 30, 2025, showcasing the best talent in speedway racing. The event attracted approximately 9-10 thousand fans eager for an adrenaline-filled afternoon, and they were not disappointed as the competition heated up with every race.

The tournament kicked off with Bartosz Zmarzlik, the reigning world champion, taking the lead in the first heat. Starting from the advantageous fourth position, Zmarzlik quickly surged ahead, but his day was marred by mechanical issues that hampered his performance. Despite his struggles, he managed to accumulate seven points after three heats, remaining competitive for the top spots.

However, Zmarzlik's chances for victory took a hit during the 16th race, where he once again faltered at the start and failed to gain the necessary speed on the track. This left him finishing with only ten points, a disappointing outcome for a rider of his caliber.

Meanwhile, Aleksandr Łoktajew, riding for Abramczyk Polonia Bydgoszcz, emerged as the star of the day. He delivered a stellar performance, finishing the tournament with an impressive twelve points (2,3,2,3,2), securing the top spot and ultimately winning the event. His consistency and speed were on full display as he navigated the track with precision.

“I’m thrilled with my performance today. The support from the home crowd was incredible, and it really pushed me to give my best,” Łoktajew remarked after his victory.

Following closely behind was Krzysztof Buczkowski, who also rode for Abramczyk Polonia Bydgoszcz, finishing with eleven points and later winning an additional race against Mikkel Michelsen to secure second place overall. Buczkowski's performance was characterized by strong starts and strategic overtakes, allowing him to capitalize on opportunities throughout the heats.

Mikkel Michelsen, representing KS Toruń, rounded out the podium with eleven points as well, showcasing his racing skills and determination. The battle for the podium was intense, with several riders exchanging leads and vying for points in a highly competitive atmosphere.

Szymon Woźniak also shone brightly, securing ten points and earning the title of the fastest rider of the day, which came with the added honor of winning the Memorial of Raniszewski.

In stark contrast, Dominik Kubera, who had recently triumphed at the 51st Bronisław Idzikowski and Marek Czerny Memorial in Częstochowa, faced difficulties in Bydgoszcz. After a rough start that included a fall in his first race, Kubera managed to recover with two solid wins in his later heats, finishing with seven points. “I didn’t expect the track conditions to be so challenging. I had to change my bike mid-way through, and that seemed to help,” he commented.

Wiktor Przyjemski, another local favorite, struggled significantly throughout the tournament, earning only three points and finishing in 14th place. Despite a strong start in his first heat, he was unable to maintain his momentum in subsequent races. “I always focus on winning my first race, but that’s just one heat. I need to stay focused for the rest,” Przyjemski stated after the event.

As the heats progressed, the competition intensified, with close races and dramatic overtakes becoming the norm. The second series finally brought some excitement, with Michelsen and Jason Doyle engaging in a fierce battle for victory in the seventh race, thrilling the crowd with their skillful maneuvers.

After three series, Buczkowski was leading with eight points, closely followed by Woźniak, Łoktajew, Zmarzlik, and Michelsen, all within striking distance of the top. The stakes were high as the riders prepared for the final heats, where every point mattered.

In the final race, a dramatic twist saw Max Fricke, who had been steadily gaining points, outperform Zmarzlik and Michelsen, sealing his fate in the tournament. The day concluded with a tie for second place, leading to an additional heat between Buczkowski and Michelsen, which Buczkowski won, solidifying his standing.

Overall, the XXXVI Criterion of Polish Speedway Leagues Aces set the tone for an exciting season ahead, with fans and riders alike eagerly anticipating the next round of competition. The event not only highlighted the skills of the riders but also the passionate support from the fans, making it a memorable start to the speedway season.