JERZY GOTOWSKI

Polish Patron Jerzy (Jurek) Gotowski

Today, a long-time friend of the World WFF-WBBF Federation, distinguished Polish businessman, patron, and public figure Jerzy (Jurek) Gotowski celebrates his birthday. We extend our warmest congratulations and sincere gratitude for his many years of support, dedication, and friendship.

The cooperation between Jerzy Gotowski and the World WFF-WBBF Federation began in 2006. That year he became one of the organizers of the international WFF-WBBF tournament in Bydgoszcz. However, his involvement quickly went far beyond the organization of a single event. Recognizing the importance of international sports cooperation, Jurek became actively engaged in the Federation's activities and soon emerged as one of its most important supporters in Poland.

His greatest contribution was the organization and sponsorship of the 2008 WFF-WBBF World Championship in Bydgoszcz, which is still regarded as one of the most remarkable events in the history of the Federation. It was not only a competition of the highest sporting standard but also a major international event that attracted widespread attention throughout Europe and beyond.

The championship took place in the prestigious Łuczniczka Sports Arena. The city was decorated with Federation flags and banners, competitors and guests enjoyed outstanding hospitality, and the winners received unique crystal medals. The exceptional level of organization became a benchmark for many World WFF-WBBF championships that followed.

Particular attention was devoted to promoting the event and enhancing its international prestige. Eight international press conferences were organized before and after the championship. Official meetings took place at Bydgoszcz City Hall with Mayor Konstanty Dombrowicz and Deputy Mayor Kazimierz Drozd. On the occasion of the World Championship, Polish Minister of Sport Zbigniew Pacelt hosted an official reception for the leadership of the World WFF-WBBF Federation at the Ministry of Sport in Warsaw. This represented significant recognition of the Federation at the national governmental level.

In the same year, Jerzy Gotowski financed the participation of a large Polish national delegation at the 40th International "Amber Prix" Tournament in Klaipėda, Lithuania. The delegation was led by Bydgoszcz Deputy Mayor Kazimierz Drozd, who also presented several cooperation initiatives between the cities of Bydgoszcz and Klaipėda. These projects were discussed with Viačeslavas Karmanovas, then Director of the Klaipėda City Municipal Administration, further strengthening sporting and cultural relations between Poland and Lithuania.

In recognition of his exceptional contribution to the international development of the World WFF-WBBF Federation, Federation President Dr. Edmundas Daubaras awarded Jerzy Gotowski the International Gold Medal of Honour in 2009. This distinction joined the numerous state decorations he had already received for his outstanding service to the Republic of Poland.

For nearly two decades, Jerzy Gotowski has remained a loyal friend of the World WFF-WBBF Federation. He continues to support Federation events in Poland, regularly attends major championships as an honorary guest, and demonstrates through his actions that true patronage is measured not only by generosity, but also by lasting loyalty to people, ideals, and international cooperation.

On the occasion of his birthday, the World WFF-WBBF Federation sincerely congratulates Jerzy (Jurek) Gotowski, wishing him good health, happiness, continued success, and many more years together with our international Federation.