Milānas-Cortina, Italy – Poļina Rožkova, a 40-year-old Latvian athlete, returned from the Winter Paralympics with a historic bronze medal in wheelchair curling, marking the first time Latvia has achieved a podium finish in the sport. However, her triumph is shadowed by a stark reality: financial hardship. Rožkova recently revealed to Latvian magazine “Privātā Dzīve” the challenges she faces in balancing elite athletic competition with a limited income in Latvia.
Foto: Paula Čurkste/LETA
Rožkova and her teammate, Agris Lasmans, secured the bronze medal after a dramatic match against the United States, winning 11-10 in an extra conclude. “Of course, I perceive happy about what we’ve achieved,” Rožkova told “Privātā Dzīve.” “I believe that the first bronze medal in Latvian wheelchair curling history, and winning it during the 50th anniversary of the Winter Paralympics, is a significant achievement.” She praised Lasmans’ mental fortitude and the strong teamwork they displayed throughout the tournament, noting their ability to overcome a 4-0 deficit in the bronze medal game.
The celebration following their victory was modest. Rožkova recounted enjoying a tiramisu in the Venice airport and receiving stylish hats as gifts from friends in Milan, explaining that her limited funds didn’t allow for more extravagant celebrations. Back home, she treated herself to a simple pumpkin or tomato cream soup. “There wasn’t enough money for anything else,” she said.
Notably, no family members were able to travel to Italy to support Rožkova in person. The athlete explained this was due to financial constraints. “With a disability pension of 426 euros, it’s difficult to bring anyone with me to Italy. Neither Agris nor I receive a salary from the Latvian Paralympic Committee. As someone once told me – I’m not better than other athletes, so a salary isn’t due,” she stated.
Rožkova emphasized the importance of proving their capabilities despite the lack of resources. “It was important for us to prove to everyone that we are the best,” she said. “The fact that we constantly faced a lack of funding, without insurance or a dedicated physiotherapist like athletes from other countries, makes these medals even more valuable.”
Latvia was represented by seven athletes at the Winter Paralympics, with five competing in wheelchair curling and Rožkova and Lasmans forming the mixed pairs team. Rožkova highlighted the disparity in training resources, noting that even as the Latvian team trained twice a week, the Chinese team trained six days a week for four hours each day.
The demands of preparing for the Paralympics make it impossible for Rožkova to hold a traditional job, leaving her currently unemployed. She and Lasmans strategically scheduled training sessions during off-peak hours to minimize costs. “We chose training sessions that took place during the day, since that’s when hall rental is cheapest. They usually started at half past two and lasted two hours. You also have to arrive at least half an hour earlier to get changed and warm up. Combining that with work would be really difficult,” Rožkova explained.
Rožkova believes that athletes who qualify for the Olympic or Paralympic Games deserve compensation for their dedication. “This isn’t a hobby. If you desire it to be a hobby, then don’t expect results,” she asserted.
Poļina Rožkova’s story underscores the challenges faced by Paralympic athletes in Latvia, even after achieving international success. Her bronze medal is a testament to her dedication and skill, but it also highlights the need for increased support for athletes who represent their country on the world stage. The Latvian Paralympic Committee has not yet commented on Rožkova’s statements regarding funding and support.
The next major event for the Latvian wheelchair curling team will be the World Championships in [Location and Date to be confirmed]. Fans can follow updates on the Latvian Paralympic Committee’s official website: https://www.lpkomiteja.lv/notikums/milanas-kortinas-ziemas-paralimpiskas-speles-2026/
