Helena Pilejczyk

As of 2009, Poland has won only two Olympic speed skating medals, and both were won in the same race, when Helena Pilejczyk and Elwira Seroczyńska both medalled in the 1500 m at the 1960 Olympics. Pilejczyk’s career spanned almost two decades. During that time, she won six Polish allround titles (1956-1958, 1962, 1969, 1971) and 31 distances titles in 500 m, 1000 m, 1500 m, 3000 m and the relay. A regular World Championships participant, Pilejczyk reached the final distance four times, placing 5th in both 1958 and 1960. She won one distance medal, in the 1000 m at the 1960 edition. After her retirement, Pilejczyk kept skating recreationally, and she has occasionally appeared in senior championships.

Personal Bests: 500 – 47.8 (1963); 1000 – 1:35.8 (1960); 1500 – 2:27.1 (1960); 3000 – 5:15.2 (1969).