Helena Pilejczyk

Before 2010, Poland had 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 1,500 m at the 1960 Olympics. It was the top result in Pilejczyk’s career that spanned almost two decades. During that time, she won six Polish allround titles (1956-1958, 1962, 1969, 1971) and 31 distance titles in 500 m, 1,000 m, 1,500 m, 3,000 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 1,000 m at the 1960 edition. After her retirement, Pilejczyk continued to skate recreationally, and she occasionally appeared in Masters championships.

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