The IWGA continues its Heroes of the Games series, celebrating the outstanding athletes whose performances and stories helped define The World Games Chengdu 2025. This article shines a spotlight on Polish Life Saving star Kacper Majchrzak, whose remarkable achievements in Chengdu earned him a place among the event's standout competitors.
For Majchrzak, one moment from Chengdu will remain etched in his memory forever.
"The most unforgettable moment at The World Games was seeing my name at the top of the scoreboard along with a new World Record," he recalled.
"I did not expect to swim that fast, especially because the pool in Chengdu was 3 metres deep. That was the moment I realised how special this event was."
His record-breaking performance capped a memorable campaign that saw him stand on the podium twice, claiming both gold and silver medals for Poland. Representing his country at the highest level brought immense pride and satisfaction.
"It is an amazing feeling to represent your country and hear the Polish national anthem while receiving a gold medal," said Majchrzak.
"It is a moment when all the hard work and dedication you have put in over many years of training are rewarded and recognised."
Reaching The World Games was an achievement in itself. With only the world's top eight athletes in each event earning qualification, the road to Chengdu demanded years of dedication, consistency and determination.
"The biggest challenge was qualifying for The World Games," he explained.
"Only the top eight athletes in the world in each event were eligible to compete. Reaching that level required a lot of hard work, consistency, and determination."
That elite qualification system is also what makes The World Games unique. For Majchrzak, competing alongside the world's best athletes from a wide variety of sports created an atmosphere unlike any other event.
"Many different non-Olympic sports take place simultaneously during The World Games," he said.
"The atmosphere and organisation are very similar to the Olympic Games or the University Games, which makes the experience truly special."
Beyond the competition, Chengdu offered opportunities to connect with athletes from other disciplines. Majchrzak particularly enjoyed meeting competitors from Finswimming, many of whom he had previously encountered through The World Games Series.
"It was great to meet them again and spend time together during The World Games," he said.
Looking ahead, Majchrzak already has his sights set on the future. With The World Games set to return in Karlsruhe, Germany, in 2029, the Polish lifesaver hopes to once again earn his place among the world's elite.
"Yes, I hope to qualify for the next edition of The World Games and compete in Karlsruhe in 2029," he said.