Czech top swimmer Jan Čejka has made a noticeable leap in development over the past year. Just more than a year of training under coach Tom Rushton has brought new experiences, fresh motivation, and steadily improving results. Jan himself says he is very happy with this period – he has learned many new things, met inspiring people, and most importantly, he enjoys the process and sees that the work he is doing is paying off.

“At the moment, I’m simply enjoying going to the pool every day and I’m happy with the continuous progress,” says the swimmer, who finished sixth in the 200m backstroke at last summer’s long course World Championships in Singapore, describing his current state. According to him, this sense of satisfaction and trust in the work being done is exactly what drives him forward.

The season begins with a training camp in Asia

One of the main goals of the upcoming long course season is the European Championships in summer, and Zirk Swim Cup plays an important role in Jan’s preparation. The season begins with a training camp in Hong Kong, and the competition in Estonia offers a great opportunity to test himself immediately after the first major training block. “It helps us see where we are at the moment and what we need to focus on more during the season,” he explains.

In addition to the swimming aspect, the special atmosphere of the competition is also important to Jan. He experienced it last year through social media and is now eagerly looking forward to being part of it in person. “Competitions like this give the season a strong emotional start,” he noted.

European Championship medal highlighted weaknesses

The recent successful Short Course European Championships, where he won a bronze medal in the 200m backstroke, have further boosted Jan’s confidence. The biggest positive takeaway was the confirmation that the changes made over the past year are working – several personal bests that had stood for years were finally broken. Equally important is the fact that he has rediscovered his joy in racing. “I’m more excited about racing than ever before,” he admits.

At the same time, Jan is honest with himself and knows exactly what needs improvement. According to him, turns require the most work – that is where he loses the most time to his competitors. Although this issue is especially noticeable in short course racing, he believes that improving his turns will also translate into a clear advantage during the long course season.

Jan Čejka’s journey shows how important the right environment, consistent work, and enjoyment of sport truly are. At the Zirk Swim Cup, the Estonian audience will see an athlete who is on an upward trajectory, highly motivated, and ready for a new big season.