Before focusing on athletics, Dobek played football. His physical education teacher noticed his potential and encouraged him to pursue athletics. Dobek recalls racing against older athletes and overtaking them in the final metres. He is one of the few from his small town to achieve success in this sport.

Club and Coaching

Dobek currently represents MKL Szczecin in Poland. Since 2020, he has been coached by Zbigniew Krol. Under Krol's guidance, Dobek has achieved notable success, including a gold medal in the 800m at the 2021 European Indoor Championships held in Torun, Poland.

Memorable Achievements

Winning gold in the 800m at the 2021 European Indoor Championships stands out as Dobek's most memorable sporting achievement. This victory marked a significant milestone in his career and showcased his talent on an international stage.

Personal Influences and Idols

Dobek credits his wife, Anastasia Kalinichenko-Dobek, and his family as the most influential people in his career. He also looks up to US sprinter Jeremy Wariner as his idol, drawing inspiration from Wariner's achievements and dedication to the sport.

Transition to New Events

In 2020, Dobek began training for the 800m event after previously specialising in the 400m hurdles. He decided to compete in both the 800m and 400m hurdles, believing that the speed required for hurdles would benefit his performance in the 800m and vice versa.

Dobek initially planned to start competing in the 800m after the Tokyo Olympic Games. However, with the postponement of the Games, he chose not to wait. He felt confident about this decision due to his positive experiences during training sessions.

Future Plans

Looking ahead, Dobek aims to continue competing in both the 800m and 400m hurdles events. His unique combination of speed and endurance positions him well for future competitions. With continued support from his coach and family, Dobek is set to achieve more milestones in his athletic career.

Patryk Dobek's journey from a small town athlete to an international champion is a testament to his dedication and hard work. As he continues to train and compete, fans eagerly anticipate his future performances on the global stage.