The European Team Championships ignite with breathtaking pole vault action against the backdrop of Spain’s majestic Royal Palace.
Was there a more spectacular way to launch the European Team Championships than at the foot of Madrid’s magnificent Royal Palace? Day 0 of the competition exploded with energy, as a capacity crowd, alongside countless onlookers, surrounded the pole vault runway. Here, 16 of Europe’s finest athletes launched themselves skyward, vying for crucial early points for their nations.
The afternoon, hot and sun-drenched, began with the women’s pole vault. The Czech Republic’s Amálie Švábíková was the star, clearing 4.65m to secure victory. This height was also matched by Ukraine’s Maryna Kylypko, marking her best performance in four years. Spanish Monica Clemente delighted the home crowd with a season best of 4.30m, while Poland’s Zofia Gaborska (4.30m) and Great Britain’s Gemma Tutton (4.45m) both achieved new personal bests. A truly memorable moment came from Lithuania’s Rugile Miklyciute, who shattered her previous best to set a new National Record of 4.30m.
With the women’s event concluding and the Czech Republic earning valuable points, the spotlight shifted to the men’s pole vault. The crowd held its breath as the 16 top vaulters faced their challenge. As expected, the Netherlands’ Menno Vloom, a pre-event favorite, demonstrated his class by being the only athlete to clear 5.80m. Poland’s Piotr Lisek also delivered a strong performance, clearing 5.70m. This competitive height also saw personal bests for the Czech Republic’s Matej Šcerba, Hungary’s Márton Böndör, and Finland’s Urho Kujanpää, all reaching 5.70m. Madrid’s own Juan Luis Bravo earned a respectable 7th place, clearing 5.60m to the cheers of his local fans.
However, the event wasn’t without its unfortunate turn. Olympic bronze medalist Emmanuel Karalis, a highly anticipated competitor, had to withdraw after experiencing foot discomfort during warm-ups, unable to attempt a single jump.
The historic Royal Palace also played host to the official Opening Ceremony for the Madrid 2025 European Team Championships, setting a grand tone for the days to come. The main track and field events will now commence from Friday to Sunday at Vallehermoso Stadium.
