Volkswagen Prague Marathon - RunCzech Magazine - EN by RunCzech

VOLKSWAGEN PRAGUE MARATHON 2018

Content Start 4

Welcome words

About the race 6-7 Essential facts 8-9 Sport Expo Program 14-15 Service for Runners 16-17 RunCzech App 18 RunCzech Pacemakers 22-27 Elite Athletes RunCzech 30-31 Run with RunCzech in 2018 32-33 Our Projects Finish 34

RunCzech team

#praguemarathon 3

Welcome words

Dear runners,

Dear runners and friends,

Dear fans of marathon running!

Dear sporting friends,

I’m delighted to welcome you to the 24th year of this exceptional sporting event. The Volkswagen Prague Marathon ranks among the most beautiful of all the races. However the marathon has worked its way to being an integral part of international running not only owing to its breath-taking scenery, but above all its participants.

I am delighted to welcome you at the starting line of the Volkswagen Marathon Weekend. Since 1995 when we organized the first Prague Marathon, running become an essential part of daily life for tens of thousands of Czechs. Over the last 23 years we strived to make Prague the capital city of the running world and at this year’s Volkswagen Prague Marathon we are going to welcome our one millionth runner!

Sunday 6th May will see 10 600 runners from all over the world take on the course of the fastest May marathon of all time – the Volkswagen Prague Marathon, all thanks to Kenyan long-distance runner Eliud Kiptanui’s record breaking time of 2:05:39 from 2010.

With the arrival of spring, the new running season is well and truly under way and as the largest running event in the Czech Republic, the Volkswagen Prague Marathon is the culmination of this.

The race starts and finishes on Old Town Square with the course guiding runners through the heart of the city, along the Vltava River and through a number of the city’s districts. And no runner can ever forget his or her first running steps Smetana’s famous Vltava playing out in the background. As an amateur runner watching from the side lines each year, I have to admit to being completely bowled over by the incredible performances of those taking part, not to mention their endurance and determination. I hope you can make it along to soak up the amazing atmosphere of this unique race as well! I’d like to take this opportunity to wish all the participants the best of luck on the course, that all injuries be kept at bay and that the fans get to experience a fantastic show. Adriana Krnáčová Prague City Mayor

Apart from marathon runners, families and children can also soak up the atmosphere of the whole Volkswagen Marathon Weekend. Whether you’re running the minimarathon, bringing along your four-legged friend for the Walk with dogs or taking on the full-marathon distance. Much like the strongest competitor can’t win a multiple stage bicycle race without team support, not even our events would be possible without the help of volunteers, partners and institutions. Thank you for your running with us! Carlo Capalbo President of the RunCzech Organizing Committee Chairman of the IAAF Road Running Commission

VOLKSWAGEN PRAGUE MARATHON 2018 | 4

The Volkswagen Prague Marathon has been described in superlatives on a number of occasions in its history: the fantastic fans, the best calibre professional runners and amateurs, not to mention one of the most beautiful marathon courses in the world. I’m confident that just as we’ve witnessed in previous years, there will be plenty of opportunity to admire the beauty and skill of runners on this year’s 42.195 km long course and that we can look forward to seeing all kinds of new recruits who have been allured by this wonderful advert for healthy living and friendly competition. Oldřich Lomecký Mayor for Prague 1

Prestigious sporting events held on the streets of Prague have earned excellent reputations also among the best world long-distance runners also appearing at the start line of this year’s event. A born city rider with plenty of stamina, the new Volkswagen T-Roc won’t get out of breath even in the most demanding conditions – which is a good thing since it will be the official race timekeeper. On behalf of the whole Volkswagen brand, I’d like to wish you all a great Volkswagen Prague Marathon 2018 – may you have plenty of energy and achieve great finishing times! Jiří Jantač Division Lead of Volkswagen Passenger Cars Porsche Czech Republic

O2_RunCzech_210x140.indd 1

15.03.18 14:26

Kompletně se vybavte v našich 97 prodejnách a na eshopu

Přidejte se k nám a sledujte strasti i radosti s během spojené

www.sportisimo.cz/behame

www.facebook.com/sportisimorun

#sportisimohvezdy

LIST OF WINNERS

Volkswagen Prague Marathon (1995 – 2017) Men 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017

Tummo TURBO William MUSYOKI John KAGWE Elijah LAGAT Eliud KEIRING Simon CHEMOIYWO Andrew SAMBU Henry TARUS Willy CHERUIYOT Barnabas KOECH Steven CHEPTOT Mubarak Hassan SHAMI Ornelas HELDER Kenneth M. MUNGARA Patrick IVUTI Eliud KIPTANUI Benson Kipchumba BARUS Deressa CHIMSA Nicholas KEMBOI Patrick TERER Felix KANDIE Lawrence CHERONO Gebretsadik ABRAHA

ETH KEN KEN KEN KEN KEN TAN KEN KEN KEN KEN QAT POR KEN KEN KEN KEN ETH QAT KEN KEN KEN ETH

2:12:44 2:12:21 2:09:07 2:08:52 2:11:19 2:10:35 2:10:14 2:11:41 2:11:56 2:12:15 2:10:42 2:11:11 2:11:49 2:11:06 2:07:48 2:05:39 2:07:07 2:06:25 2:08:51 2:08:07 2:08:32 2:07:24 2:08:47

Svetlana TKACH Elena VINICKAYA Elena VINICKAYA Elena VINICKAYA Franca FIACCONI Alina IVANOVA Maura VICECONTE Alventina IVANOVA Anne Jelagat KIBOR Leila AMAN Salina Jebet KOSGEI Alina IVANOVA Nailya YULAMANOVA Nailya YULAMANOVA Olga GLOK Helena KIROP Lydia CHEROMEI Agnes KIPROP Caroline ROTICH Firehiwot DADO Yebrgual MELESE Lucy KARIMI Valary AIYABEI

UKR BLR BLR BLR ITA RUS ITA RUS KEN ETH KEN RUS RUS RUS RUS KEN KEN KEN KEN KEN ETH KEN KEN

2:39:33 2:37:33 2:32:58 2:34:25 2:28:33 2:27:42 2:26:33 2:32:24 2:31:10 2:31:49 2:28:42 2:29:20 2:33:10 2:31:43 2:28:27 2:25:29 2:22:34 2:25:41 2:27:00 2:23:34 2:23:49 2:24:46 2:21:57

Women 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017

VOLKSWAGEN PRAGUE MARATHON 2018 | 6

VOLKSWAGEN PRAGUE MARATHON 2018

Volkswagen Prague Marathon Date: 6 May 2018 First held: 6 June 1995 Next edition: 5 May 2019 Edition: 24th Title partner: Volkswagen IAAF Label: IAAF Road Race Gold Label

Start / Finish: Old Town Square Distance: 42.195 km Time limit: 7 hours Capacity: 10 600 runners

EVENT RECORDS: Men: 2:05:39 (2010), Eliud Kiptanui (KEN) Women: 2:21:57 (2017), Valary Aiyabei (KEN) The fastest Czech – men: 2:12:35 (2004), Róbert Štefko The fastest Czech – women: 2:30:10 (2016), Eva Vrabcová

Categories: Individuals (42.195 km) Teams (4x42.195 km) 2RUN (20 + 22,195 km) National Marathon Championships Medical Run Rescue and Security Forces Run

Accompanying program: Sport Expo Walk with Dogs dm family day Prague Digital Marathon Marathon Music Festival

WORLD RECORDS IN MARATHON: Men: 2:02:57 (2014), Dennis Kimetto (KEN) Women: 2:15:25 (2003), Paula Radcliffe (GBR) CZECH NATIONAL RECORDS IN MARATHON: Men: 2:11:57 (1993), Karel David Women: 2:27:00 (1995), Alena Peterková

TV COVERAGE: ČT sport 8:50 - 11:25 a.m.

RACE PROGRAM

SUNDAY, MAY 6 MASS FOR MARATHON RUNNERS Church of the Holy Cross

7.30 A.M.

START OF THE PROGRAM Old Town Square

7.30 A.M.

OPENING OF THE GUEST ZONE Old Town Square

8 A.M.

START OF THE VOLKSWAGEN PRAGUE MARATHON Old Town Square

9 A.M.

ANTICIPATED ARRIVAL OF THE 1ST MAN Old Town Square

11:05 – 11:08 A.M.

ANTICIPATED ARRIVAL OF THE 1ST WOMAN 11:23 – 11:26 A.M. Old Town Square AWARD CEREMONY Old Town Square

11:25 A.M. – 12:10 P.M.

AFTER-RACE PRESS CONFERENCE Old Town hall, Old Town Square

12:20 P.M.

OFFICIAL CLOSURE OF THE EVENT Old Town Square

4 P.M.

VISIT THE SPORT EXPO

Interesting numbers THE FOLLOWING IS USED DURING THE RACE:

Pick your start number, meet the elite runners, try new products or simply just come and wander around. You are all welcome to visit the Sport Expo at the Exhibition grounds in Prague’s Holešovice district. Soak up the atmosphere of the Sport Expo!

16 500 MEDALS

374 241

OPENING HOURS

CUPS

THURSDAY MAY 3, 2018: 12.00 – 20.00 FRIDAY MAY 4, 2018: 10.00 – 20.00 SATURDAY MAY 5, 2018: 10.00 – 20.00

66 540 SAFETY PINS

HOW TO REACH THE SPORT EXPO BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT – tram number 6, 12, 17 to Výstaviště Holešovice BY CAR - supervised and paid parking available by the ice hockey hall

Title partner

Institutional partner

VOLKSWAGEN PRAGUE MARATHON 2018 | 8

Title partner of family day

Main partners

VOLKSWAGEN PRAGUE MARATHON 2018

ACCOMPANYING PROGRAM

5 621

10 600

METRES OF FENCE BY JOHNNY SERVIS

THERMAL INSULATION SHEETS

241

DRUNK:

MOBILE TOILETS

41 889 18 741

LITRES OF MATTONI WATER LITRES OF GATORADE

107 850

FRESHENING UP SPONGES EATEN:

5 364

391

TRAFFIC SIGNS

KILOS OF BANANAS FROM KAUFLAND

3 789

KILOS OF ORANGES FROM KAUFLAND

1 789 29 KG SALT 24

BAGUETTES

KG SUGAR

Official partners

(the complete program is available at runczech.com)

THURSDAY MAY 3, 2018 12:15 ADIDAS BODY CARE – introduction of cosmetics for runners 12:30 PRESS CONFERENCE WITH ELITE CZECH RUNNERS - Jiří Homoláč a Eva Vrabcová-Nývltová 17:30 ANALYSIS OF PROPER RUNNING TECHNIQUE - Radim Kůta, coach Umímběhat.cz 18:00 PRE-RACE SHAKE OUT RUN with coaches of Umímběhat.cz FRIDAY MAY 4, 2018 17:00 AUTOGRAPHS AND PRESS CONFERENCE with elite foreign athletes 17:30 RADKA CHURÁŇOVÁ – 100K Czech champion 18:00 PRE-RACE SHAKE OUT RUN with coaches of Umímběhat.cz 18:30 GATORADE - nutritional consultant Zuzana Šafářová talks about proper hydration for marathon 19:00 UMÍMBĚHAT.CZ – interview with a running coach Radim Kůta SATURDAY MAY 5, 2018 10:00 PRE-RACE SHAKE OUT RUN with Mattoni FreeRun coaches 11:00 INTERVIEW WITH FREERUN COACHES 11:30 CONCERT - J. J. Big Band 12:30 START OF BARILLA PASTA PARTY 13:30 GABRIELA KOUKALOVÁ – czech biathlete 14:00 BOOK SIGNING G. KOUKALOVÁ 14:30 EVA VRABCOVÁ NÝVLTOVÁ – inteview with the best Czech marathoner 15:30 END OF THE BARILLA PASTA PARTY 16:00 BEZ FRÁZÍ.CZ – a website about sport heroes

Marathon around Prague sights

he first attraction we notice comes as we cross Charles Bridge returning to the left bank of the Vltava with Prague Castle in full view. After passing several embankments, we make it to Libeň Bridge and head to Pařížská Street to the finish via Holešovice. However, the marathon isn’t a mere 13 kilometres long, so instead we continue straight to the city centre. Through Celetná, Na Příkopě and Národní třída all the way back to the Vltava, this time turning onto its right-hand bank all the way to the Dancing House.

Nobody visiting Prague can forget to stop by Old Town Square. It’s where history is made. Including of the running variety. Marathon runners gather here at the start of May returning to that same spot 42 kilometres and 195 metres later to cross the blue carpet and the finish line, not to mention collect their beautiful medals. A small loop from Jirásek Bridge over Palacký Bridge takes us to Vršovice. Expect for a slightly achy neck as your curiosity gets the better of you and you gaze up above to Nuselský Bridge. We run under monumental Vyšehrad and then head towards Podolí to the half marathon point. It’s generally said that the second half of the race goes downhill. And I think there’s something to that since we face a long downhill stretch from Svornosti Street onto Strakonická. Once here, we’ll be able to spot the 31-kilometre sign shining right at us, after which our path changes course once again along the river. We then return to Rudolfinum and Mánes Bridge - we’ve been there before so aren’t too phased by those famous, yet somewhat pesky cobblestones under our feet. It’s Sunday, so nobody’s at home at the government offices which means we get no waves from those buildings. Best to get a move on and crank up the pace to Holešovice. We take on Libeň Bridge once again followed by the long, endless straight road along Rohan Embankment taking us all the way to Těšnov tunnel. Then all that’s left are the last two kilometres and the final stretch along Pařížská Street. A standing ovation from the crowd awaits along with a final push from us pacemakers and over we go across the blue carpet, accompanied by an emotional rollercoaster ride as we make it to the end at long last. Welcome to the finish, dear marathon winners. ◄ JIRKA M.

Official media partners

VOLKSWAGEN PRAGUE MARATHON 2018 | 10

Průmyslový palác Holešovice

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náměstí Jana Palacha

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Trasa závodu | List of streets Staroměstské náměstí » Pařížská » Čechův most » Nábřeží Edvarda Beneše (1 km) » Klárov » Valdštejnská » Tomášská (2 km) » Malostranské náměstí » Mostecká » Karlův most » Křižovnické náměstí » Křižovnická (3 km) » Náměstí Jana Palacha » Mánesův most » Kosárkovo nábřeží » U Plovárny » Nábřeží Edvarda Beneše (4 km) » podběh Štefánikova mostu » (5 km) Nábř. kapitána Jaroše » (6 km) Bubenské nábřeží » Komunardů » Jateční (7 km) » Jankovcova » Libeňský most (8 km) » Štorchova » Voctářova (9 km) » Rohanské nábř. (10 km) » Těšnovský tunel (11 km) » Nábř. Ludvíka Svobody » Dvořákovo nábřeží (12 km) » náměstí Curieových » Pařížská » Staroměstské náměstí » Celetná (13 km) » Prašná brána » Na Příkopě » Můstek » 28. října (14 km) » Národní » Masarykovo nábřeží (15 km) » Jiráskovo nám. » Jiráskův most » Dienzenhoferovy sady » Zborovská » Lidická (16 km) » Palackého most » Palackého náměstí » Rašínovo nábř. (17 km) » Svobodova » Na Slupi » Sekaninova (18 km)

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Start/Cíl | Start/Finish: Staroměstské náměstí / Old Town Square Technické zázemí | Technical area: Václavské náměstí / Wenceslas Square Seřadiště | Line-Up: Celetná

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RUNCZECH APP

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24 29 21

Podolsk é nábřež í

» Jaromírova (19 km) » Na Slupi » Svobodova » Rašínovo nábřeží (20 km) » Vyšehradský tunel » Podolské nábř. (21 km, 21,0975 km, (22 km) » otočka / turn point » Podolské nábř. (23 km, 24 km) » Vyšehradský tunel » Rašínovo náb. (25 km) » Palackého most » Lidická » Svornosti (26 km) » Strakonická (27 km, 28 km) » otočka / turn point » Strakonická (29 km) » Hořejší nábř. (30 km) » Nábřežní » Janáčkovo nábř. (31 km) » Most legií » Smetanovo nábř. (32 km) » Křižovnická » náměstí Jana Palacha » Mánesův most » Kosárkovo nábřeží (33 km) » náb. Edvarda Beneše » podběh Čechova mostu » náb. Edvarda Beneše (34 km) » podběh Štefánikova mostu » Nábř. kapitána Jaroše (35 km) » Bubenské nábřeží » Komunardů (36 km) » Jateční » Jankovcova » Libeňský most (37 km) » Štorchova » Voctářova (38 km) » Rohanské nábř. (39 km, 40 km) » Těšnovský tunel » Nábř. Ludvíka Svobody » Dvořákovo nábřeží (41 km) » náměstí Curieových » Pařížská (42 km) » Staroměstské náměstí.

21.0975

Předpokládaný čas prvního a posledního běžce (časový limit) Estimated time of the first and the last runner (cutoff time)

09:03 / 09:17

09:36 / 11:04

10:08 / 12:52

10:41 / 14:40

09:06 / 09:27

09:39 / 11:14

10:11 / 13:02

10:44 / 14:50

09:09 / 09:36

09:42 / 11:24

10:14 / 13:12

10:47 / 14:59

09:12 / 09:46

09:45 / 11:34

10:17 / 13:21

10:50 / 15:09

09:15 / 09:56

09:48 / 11:44

10:20 / 13:31

10:53 / 15:19

09:18 / 10:06

09:51 / 11:53

10:23 / 13:41

10:56 / 15:29

09:21 / 10:16

09:54 / 12:03

10:26 / 13:51

10:59 / 15:39

09:24 / 10:25

09:57 / 12:13

10:29 / 14:01

11:02 / 15:48

09:27 / 10:35

09:59 / 12:23

10:32 / 14:10

11:05 / 15:58

09:30 / 10:45

10:03 / 12:33

10:35 / 14:20

09:33 / 10:55

10:05 / 12:42

10:38 / 14:30

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Františka Křížka

Letenské náměstí

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občerstvovací stanice refreshment point

start / cíl start / finish

osvěžovací stanice sponges point první pomoc first aid

významné památky important monuments

Birell Music Point toalety toilets

METRO (A - B - C)

Sport Expo Sport Expo Birell sprcha Birell shower

Prague streets for runners This Sunday 6th May the streets of Prague will temporarily belong to marathon runners. A total of 10 600 runners are expected to take part in the 24th edition of the Volkswagen Prague Marathon – clearly a few too many people to work alongside regular road traffic. A number of transport measures are thus expected at the Volkswagen Prague Marathon, however rest assured they will only be in place for the absolutely essential timeframe and minimum scope.

“We’re aware that race day isn’t exactly a cause to celebrate for Prague residents, but we have also done our utmost to ensure the inconveniences associated with traffic restrictions are kept to the bare minimum. We appreciate your tolerance and thank you in advance for it. We’d also love to see you at the race, whether on the start line or as a spectator along the course, President of the RunCzech Organising Committee Carlo Capalbo reveals.

Free transport – info line 800 165 102 Monday 30th April to Saturday 5th May from 9.00 to 18.00 hours Sunday 6th May from 8.00 to 16.00 hours

800 100 991 Sunday 6th May from 8.00 to 16.00 hours

VOLKSWAGEN PRAGUE MARATHON 2018 | 12

Information is also available on www.runczech.com, or the Waze mobile app

VOLKSWAGEN PRAGUE MARATHON 2018

The Marathon Music Festival: legitimate doping along the course Vote for the best band at runczech.com

Music and running are intricately linked. Plenty of runners rely on the regular rhythms of music delivered to their trusty headphones to get through long runs. At our races, though you can leave your headphones at home as thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be no lack of auditory stimuli to worry about. At the Marathon Music Festival every few hundred metres along the course youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be greeted by singers, bands and DJs, each fulfilling their duties to help guide you to the finish. An ever-increasing number of runners like to have a bit of fun at our races. And music is one of the most powerful ways to do just that.

Treats to look forward to The Volkswagen Prague Marathon isn’t just a run. You can look forward to checking out a whole host of interesting features whether the Sport Expo, before or after the race. Here’s a snapshot of some of them:

Volkswagen interactive mirror At the Volkswagen trailer on Old Town Square, marathon runners can look forward to checking out an interactive mirror which captures you alongside unconventional creations, the end result of which you get to keep either as a printed copy or have sent to your inbox. They will also be handing out tea, coffee and excellent homemade lemonade

Unique adidas collection with MAAPPI Pay a visit to the adidas stand at the Sport Expo and purchase the official event collection. 50 CZK from each purchase of this limited edition collection goes to the charity MAAPPI which supports children with autism.

Refreshments along the course Mattoni is offering samples of its products for all those attending the Running Expo. Runners will be offered Mattoni water at all the refreshment stands and freshening up stations along the race course.

Beer at the finish line Every runner knows that beer tastes best at the finish line. And you’ll also have the chance to drink your fill of refreshing Birell at the end of the race.

VOLKSWAGEN PRAGUE MARATHON 2018 | 14

VOLKSWAGEN PRAGUE MARATHON 2018

Time wristbands Have a dream marathon time in mind and worried you won’t be able to keep to your pace? Sportisimo has come up with a simple solution – you can pick up your bracelet featuring your interval times at both the Sportisimo stand at the Expo as well as on the square on race day. Sportisimo will also be on call to tape up any aches and pains you have before the race, plus hand over a commemorative key ring after you cross the finish

Some free telly loads of gadgets from O2! Stop by the O2 stand or the EXPO to pick up your voucher to claim 30% off a Samsung Gear watch. On top of that, get 20% off on a number of running gadgets including running armbands and wireless sports headphones. And leaving the best till last: each runner who downloads the RunCzech app gets a month of 02 TV free of charge!

Fruits from Kaufland

Info for runners

Did you know that bananas and oranges are ideal source of energy for running? Fresh fruit for all marathoners is delivered by Kaufland.

Do you need help? Did you get lost? You will get all your answers at the Info Point run by Seznam.cz at the Old Town Square.

Marathon Broadcast

Lost property by Gefco

Protein for runners

The AirStream of Radiožurnál will bring you the latest information about the Prague Marathon directly from the Old Town Square.

Lost something in the start area or on the course? Try heading to the Gefco point – a special delivery service gathering all lost property.

Did you know that runners need to increase their intake of protein and calcium? Meggle dairy products are an ideal way to get a nutrient boost. And you can sample them at the Prague Marathon.

Sweet treats All of our participants and fans can look forward to sampling ice cream at the UniCredit bank stand by the start line of the Volkswagen Prague Marathon.

Sport drinks from Gatorade You can taste the most popular sport drink in the world in Sport Expo or on the course of the Prague Marathon. Drinking Gatorade will prevent you from hitting the wall and will help you to finish in a better time!

Fragrances and refreshments by Coty A decent shower is the best reward for every runner. And it’s best of all when topped off with adidas cosmetics by Coty which will be included in your start bags.

Free transport On race day each runner gets free travel on

Media partners

Prague’s public transport system. Just have your start number with you as proof.

Original photo and race diploma Get your photo taken from the half marathon course with www.marathon-photos.com. Another great way to remember the race by is your own personal diploma delivered to you especially courtesy of the Messenger express courier service.

Barilla Pasta Party It’s important to build up your strength before taking on a marathon. You’re invited to tuck into some high calibre Italian Barilla pasta from 12:30 to 15:30 on 5th May at the Sport Expo.

unique app for

runners and their friends

Přeskočit

RunCzech wants to bring runners always something new

RUNCZECH APP

and this season we present you another big innovation. With the new RunCzech App you can pick up your start number and get the complete information service about the race. Runners along with the fans will now enjoy the race even more thanks to live tracking. Last but not least – the RunCzech App provides a perpetual source of inspiration for runners and benefits from our partners.

VOLKSWAGEN PRAGUE MARATHON 2018 | 16

VOLKSWAGEN PRAGUE MARATHON 2018

Live tracking of runners Your family and friends can watch your time and position on the course and cheer you up. Tell them to download the app to follow you on-line.

Virtual Goodie Bag Runners’ stories

With the RunCzech App you can pick up your start number and get the complete pre-race info including traffic measures and post-race results. Thanks to the RunCzech App you will have all partner benefits in your phone and ready to use – no more leaflets in plastic bags! The RunCzech App provides information about the Running Expo so that you won’t miss any interesting speaker or the after party. With our App you will have the complete accompanying program at hand.

Chase them all with RunCzech App 17

Somebody runs to lose weight and others run just for fun. Every runner has a unique story and we love to hear them all. If you are looking for an inspiration, just read Runners’ stories in RunCzech App.

Running inspiration Running tips and advice are always at hand with our RunCzech App. If you are not sure how to stretch before a race or what to have for breakfast - we have a solution. Don’t know how or where to run? Mattoni FreeRun with more than 80 running courses and many experienced FreeRun coaches all over the Czech Republic will show you the beauty of running.

The new RunCzech App is available for Android and iOS.

PACEMAKERS: it takes a mixture of character and running skills to make a pacemaker

The marathon discipline is undoubtedly the king of races. Even for us pacemakers taking on 42 kilometres and 195 metres of course is no easy feat, and a huge learning curve in our pacemaking careers. But our goal always remains the same. To help race participants fulfil their dreams. For many, it’s about enhancing a personal best, for others about proving themselves capable of completing the marathon; something many could only have dreamed of in the past.

thon moments to finish the course within five hours, they’ll be right there with a reassuring smile on their faces, full of plenty of kind and motivating words to spur you on. Maybe it’s something you’ve noticed? One of the best bits for us, however, is seeing your expressions of joy as you cross the finish, having the chance to shake your hands or even get a hug. You don’t need to say anything, there’s no need for words, simple gestures convey all you could ever wish to say. We know and understand those feelings.

As a PACEMAKING team which has grown into a solid unit over the years, we’re here for all of these runners. And it’s no exaggeration to say that only the very best pacemakers are recruited to take on the marathon course. You could say we’re a bit like the national crème de la crème and that wouldn’t be much of an exaggeration either.

By now you almost certainly understand that in addition to running skills, a strong character is what’s needed to make the grade. This is the main quality that makes a true pacemaker. And that applies to all of us appearing before the start line of the Volkswagen Prague Marathon with our PACEMAKER flags. We do what we do out of a love for running and joy to work with all marathon race participants. We’re there for you at the start as well as the finish line to offer our heartfelt congratulations.

Among them we find super speedy racers capable of running the fastest pacemaker times. And while they tend not to have much time spare for fun, you most certainly won’t be bored in their company. On top of that, while you’re battling through some tough mara-

◄ JIRKA M. Captain of the Pacemakers

Patrons

VOLKSWAGEN PRAGUE MARATHON 2018 | 18

THE 16 PACEMAKERS TAKING PART IN THE VOLKSWAGEN PRAGUE MARATHON ON 6. 5.2018: 3:15 LANE C Jiří Fix Mirek Touška 3:30 LANE D Jan Mareček Libor Ondrůšek 3:45 LANE E Jiří Mašek Jekatěrina Zanozina 4:00 LANE G Vojtěch Knespl Alan Gorski Adéla Blahovcová 4:15 LANE H Petra Heřman Pavla Kratochvílová Petr Kudláček 4:30 LANE K Pavel Čvančara Jiří Kučera 5:00 LANE J Roman Novotný Jitka Faronová SUBS: Petr Macek Karel Kodr

VOLKSWAGEN PRAGUE MARATHON 2018

Global Running Day will kick-off in Prague In addition to the Volkswagen Prague Marathon on Sunday, May 6 Global Running Day will be launched in Prague. This is an international initiative created by the New York Road Runners to celebrate running and promote a healthy lifestyle. Gobal Running Day included more than a million participants in 187 countries in 2017. To announce the kickoff of the 2018 event, scheduled this year for June 6, an honored guest, Lord Sebastian Coe, double Olympic champion, member of the House of Lords of the British Parliament, and the President of the International Association of Athletic Federations (IAAF), will make the announcement from the Old Town Square. RunCzech thus joins the dozens of organizations around the world that support Global Running

Day. "Global Running Day fits perfectly into the philosophy supported by RunCzech. Our Junior Marathon is the largest nonprofit race for high school students in Central Europe. Family runs are part of the RunCzech events, "says Carlo Capalbo, president of the RunCzech Organizing Committee, and chairman of the IAAF Road Running Commission.

Kids and dogs rule in Prague on the first Saturday in May

Saturday 5th May promises to offer a whole host of exercise-related fun for the whole family. Taking place at Prague’s Výstaviště exhibition grounds in Holešovice, the dm Family Day will deliver entertainment all day long along plus features an accompanying programme.

VOLKSWAGEN PRAGUE MARATHON 2018 | 20

VOLKSWAGEN PRAGUE MARATHON 2018

he day kicks off with an event for dog lovers. The five-kilometre course guiding runners through Prague’s Stomovka Park comes in two versions – a non-competitive walk with dogs and the canicross race. All you need to do is register and then measure the strengths of your four-legged darling with those of all the other dog-sprinters taking part. Theme t-shirts will be made for all the participating humans, with plenty of treats for the dogs, refreshments along the course and medals at the finish line. You may also spot the Czech Republic’s number one long-distance runner Eva Vrabcová-Nývltová on the course who will be running the canicross race with her dog Bella. The dm Family Mini-marathon gets under way at three o’clock in the afternoon. This is a non-competitive run with two course options – one three kilometres in length, the

other spanning five -and is suitable for the whole family, including little kids. Everyone can manage it and all participants - little and large – come away with a medal and t-shirt at the end! Kids and adults alike can look forward to a whole host of fun attractions including a warm-up run before the family minimarathon and a disco featuring Vlasta Vébr. The programme will be brought to a close with a kids’ concert. Come along to enjoy the all-day entertainment at Prague’s Výstaviště Exhibition Grounds in Holešovice and run around Stromovka Park with your nearest and dearest.

DM FAMILY DAY Saturday 5th May 13.00 Walk with Dogs Canicross race 15.00 dm Family Mini-marathon VOLKSWAGEN PRAGUE MARATHON Sunday 6th May 9.00 Start Register on www.runczech.com/ dmrodinnebehy

Praha dm rodinný minimaraton

05. 05. 2018

Karlovy Vary dm rodinný běh

19. 05. 2018

České Budějovice dm rodinný běh

02. 06. 2018

Olomouc dm rodinný běh

23. 06. 2018

Ústí nad Labem dm rodinný běh

15. 09. 2018

Více na www.runczech.com/dmrodinnebehy.

SPORT EXPO PRAGUE Thursday 3rd May – Sunday 6th May

◄RC

dm RODINNÉ BĚHY!

Chcete se svou rodinou udělat něco pro své zdraví? Jděte si zaběhat – třeba na dm rodinné běhy.

PROGRAMME FOR THE VOLKSWAGEN MARATHON WEEKEND

Prague Marathon promises strong assault on records and European Championship qualifying times The 24th Volkswagen Prague Marathon kicks off the first Sunday in May from Old Town Square. In keeping with tradition, victory will likely go to one of several African longdistance stars; a group headed on this occasion by Sisay Lemma. The Ethiopian runner is expected to launch an assault on the race record of 2:05:39 held since 2010 by Eliud Kiptanui. The women will also be out to smash records with Ethiopian runners Amane Beriso and Amane Gobana clear favourites on that front. Aside from records, runners will also be looking to qualify for the European Championships taking place this August.

isay Lemma is the main race favourite among the men. The twenty-seven year old Ethiopian runner ran a personal best of 2:04:08 back in January in Dubai however will face fierce competition in beating the race record (2:05:39) from compatriot Bazu Worku and Kenyan runner Stephan Chemlany. “Others to watch out for include outstanding half marathon runners Asefa Tefera, Belay Tilahun and Felix Kibitok, who will be competing in their very first Prague marathon,” Manager of Elite Athletes, Jana Moberly reveals. Of all the top competing European runners, Ukrainian athlete Olexandr Sitkovskiy holds the best personal record, however Jiří Homoláč

VOLKSWAGEN PRAGUE MARATHON 2018 | 22

also has his sights set high including qualifying for the European Championships. Italy’s Giovanni Grano and Gert Jan Wassink from the Netherlands have similar ambitions. Three Canadian long-distance runners will also be taking part and keen to beat the Canadian national record set by Jerome Drayton in 1975 (2:10:09). The woman’s race will primarily comprise a duel between two Ethiopians – Amane Beriso and her namesake Amane Gobena. Both hold better personal bests than the current race record (2:21:57). Portugal’s Sara Moreira is also expected to deliver an excellent performance. This Olympian and European Championship medallist ran her personal best in Prague in 2015.

The Czech National Marathon Championships will also be held as part of the Volkswagen Prague Marathon. Jiří Homoláč is the favourite to win in the man’s category, though with five titles as the best Czech marathon runner, Petr Pechek’s abilities should not be underestimated. Having run a personal best of 2:17:51 in Prague in 2015, Vít Pavlišta will also want in on the winning action. In terms of the women, with Eva Vrabcová-Nýlvtová absent from the course, the battle for first place on the podium will be likely play out between Ivana Sekyrová, Petra Pastorová and Tereza Ďurdiaková.

◄ RC

Stephen CHEMLANY

Bazu WORKU

With a personal best of 2:06:24, he is the third fastest marathon runner to appear at the start line / In 2011 he finished second at the Berlin marathon / He studied IT at Iona College in New York.

He finished second at last year’s Volkswagen Prague Marathon with a time of 2:08:48 / He has won the Houston marathon on several occasions / Bazu ranks among the world’s top runners despite being blind in one eye.

sponsor: Nike | country: Kenya

sponsor: Nike | country: Ethiopia

Galen RUPP Sisay LEMMA

Mekuanet Gebre AYENEW

Lemma began running aged seventeen, and like many Ethiopian boys, started out competing barefoot / He has triumphed at marathons in Warsaw, Frankfurt and Vienna / He ran his personal best of 2:04:08 this January in Dubai.

He is a 2-time Olympic medalist. In London 2012 he won the silver medal in 10,000 m and in Rio 2016 he took the bronze in marathon / In 2017 he won the Chicago marathon and was a runner-up in Boston / In March 2018 won the Roma-Ostia half marathon.

He finished third at last year’s Volkswagen Prague Marathon running a personal best of 2:09:00 / This year has seen him complete the Dubai marathon which he ran in 2:09:20 / He won the Beijing marathon in 2016.

sponsor: Nike | country: Ethiopia

sponsor: Nike | country: USA

sponsor: adidas | country: Ethiopia

Suehiro ISHIKAWA An economics graduate / In 2013 he finished seventh at the Berlin marathon / In 2016 he took part in the Rio Olympics.

sponsor: – | country: Japan

Giovanni GRANO

Yuma HATTORI He ran his personal best of 2:09:46 last year in Tokyo / He graduated from Toyo University in Tokyo / He kicked off this year’s season at the half marathon in the Japanese city of Tamano finishing with a time of 1:03:06.

Of all the European runners taking part in the Volkswagen Prague Marathon he holds the best personal record for the marathon distance (2:09:11) / He finished 12th place in the marathon at the 2012 Olympics / He finished as the fourth fastest European at the 2018 Sportisimo Prague Half Marathon.

sponsor: – | country: Japan

sponsor: Nike | country: Ukraine

Gert Jan WASSINK

He ran his personal marathon best of 2:17:24 in Hamburg in 2015 / He will be competing in the Czech Republic for the first time / He studies software engineering at Zurich University.

He ran his personal marathon record of 2:17:34 in Rotterdam in 2015 / He comes from Varsseveld just like the football trainer Guus Hiddink and cyclist Robert Gesink / He will be using the Prague race as an opportunity to qualify for the European Championships in Berlin.

sponsor: – | country: Italy

sponsor: – | country: The Netherlands

Jiří HOMOLÁČ

Petr PECHEK

He finished 65th in the half marathon at the World Championships in Valencia / At the Sportisimo Prague Half Marathon held in April he once again finished as the best Czech with a time of 1:04:33 / At the Czech National Championships in the half marathon in Pardubice, he finished third overall, as the first Czech and new national champion.

With five titles under his belt, he’s the most successful marathon runner in Czech history / He works as a programmer, having never lived off running / He ran his personal best time of 2:18:26 in Prague back in 2011.

sponsor: adidas | country: Czech Republic

sponsor: – | country: Czech Republic

VOLKSWAGEN PRAGUE MARATHON 2018 | 24

Oleksandr SITKOVSKIY

Afewerk MESFIN In 2014 he finished 3rd at the Košice marathon / Last year he placed 14th at the Mattoni Half Marathon Ústí nad Labem / He won the Chongqing marathon 2017. sponsor: adidas | country: Ethiopia

Vít PAVLIŠTA He finished as the second best Czech at last year’s Volkswagen Prague Marathon / He ran his personal best time of 2:17:51 in Prague in 2015 / He finished fourth overall and second Czech at the Czech National Championships held in Pardubice. sponsor: – | country: Czech Republic

VOLKSWAGEN PRAGUE MARATHON 2018

START LIST – ELITE ATHLETES – MEN number 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 11 12 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

nationality ETH KEN ETH ETH USA JPN KEN JPN ETH KEN KEN UKR ETH KEN ETH MAR CZE ITA NED CAN CAN CAN CZE CZE POR KEN POL SVK

name and surname Sisay LEMMA Stephen Kwelio CHEMLANY Bazu WORKU Mekuant AYENEW Galen RUPP Suehiro ISHIKAWA Duncan MAIYO Yuma HATTORI Afewerk MESFIN Japhet KOSGEI Barselius KIPYEGO Oleksandr SITKOVSKYY Asefa TEFERA Felix KIBITOK Belay TILAHUN Mohammed KOULA Jiří HOMOLÁČ Giovanni GRANO Gert Jan WASSING Trevor HOFBAUER Thomas TOTH Robert WINSLOW Petr PECHEK Vít PAVLIŠTA Pedro RIBEIRO Stephen Kiplagat BISIENEI Jakub SZYMANKIEWICZ Boris CSIBA

date of birth 12. 12. 1990 9. 8. 1982 15. 9. 1990 24. 10. 1991 8. 5. 1986 27. 9. 1979 5. 8. 1990 13. 11. 1993 12. 10. 1992 1. 1. 1988 23. 7. 1993 9. 6. 1978 1. 1. 1993 9. 6. 1991 7. 1. 1995 1. 8. 1987 25. 2. 1990 24. 4. 1990 31. 8. 1982 8. 3. 1992 6. 10. 1991 16. 8. 1988 11. 4. 1983 22. 3. 1985 25. 3. 1981 2. 11. 1978 1. 9. 1990 17. 8. 1989

marathon time 02:04:08 02:06:24 02:05:25 02:09:00 02:09:20 02:09:10 02:09:25 02:09:46 02:09:49 02:08:08 02:13:06 02:09:11 debut debut debut debut 02:16:44 02:17:24 02:17:34 02:18:06 02:18:58 02:19:00 02:18:28 02:17:51 02:20:45 02:19:43 02:23:35 02:26:57

02-DEC-2018

#IAAFGoldLabel

#FlatCircuit

#BestMarathonSpain

#FastestMarathonSpain

Amane GOBENA She will be appearing in the Czech Republic for the third time; having run her personal best in the 3km here in 2002 at the Josef Odložil Memorial and competed at Ostrava’s Golden Spike in 2005 / She ran her personal marathon best of 2:21:51 in 2016 at the Tokyo marathon / She has won marathons in Istanbul, Seoul and Toronto.

She finished fifth place in the 10 000 m at the London Olympics / She has competed in Ostrava’s Golden Spike event on several occasions / She started off this year with second place at the Houston marathon.

sponsor: Nike | country: Ethiopia

Sara MOREIRA

With a time of 2:22:15 she finished second at last year’s Volkswagen Prague Marathon / She finished fourth at this year’s Rome-Ostia half marathon / She ran her personal marathon best of 2:20:48 at the Dubai marathon in 2016. sponsor: adidas | country: Ethiopia

Petra PASTOROVÁ She is a three-time Czech marathon champion / She trains in the Beskydy mountains / She ran her personal best of 2:36:44 at the Volkswagen Prague Marathon 2013.

sponsor: – | country: Czech Republic

VOLKSWAGEN PRAGUE MARATHON 2018 | 26

Filomena CHEPCHIRCHIR

She has amassed a great number of medals from European Championships. Her greatest accolades include a half marathon gold from 2016 in Amsterdam and silver from the 2010 European Championships in Barcelona. She also took part in the 2008 and 2012 Olympics / She finished third at the New York Marathon in 2014 / She ran her personal marathon best of 2:24:49 at the 2015 Volkswagen Prague Marathon.

She triumphed at half marathons in Hamburg and Zwolle last year / Among the women taking part in the race, she holds the fastest personal half marathon best (1:08:06) / She finished second at the Prague marathon in 2012, going on to finish ninth two years later.

sponsor: adidas | country: Portugal

sponsor: adidas | country: Kenya

Teresa MONTRONE Amane BERISO

Belaynesh OLJIRA

She ran her personal best of 2:38:55 at last year’s Verona marathon, finishing second place overall / She studied maths at the University of Salento / She will be running for the first time in the Czech Republic.

sponsor: – | country: Italy

Tereza ĎURDIAKOVÁ She completed the Volkswagen Prague Marathon as the third best Czech woman last year / She trains with Pavel Novák, an outstanding former marathon runner / Triathlonist Tomáš Mika has been assigned her pacemaker at this year’s marathon. sponsor: – | country: Czech Republic

Ivana SEKYROVÁ She ran her first marathon in Rotterdam in 2012 finishing there in a time of 2:34:23 which was enough to qualify for the London Olympics / She works at a grammar school in Sokolov where she teaches physical education and citizenship / This will be her second Volkswagen Prague Marathon. sponsor: – | country: Czech Republic

Dagmar RYCHNOVSKÁ She won the bronze medal at the half marathon World Championships in 2016 / She finished as the fifth best Czech woman at this year’s Sportisimo Prague Half Marathon / She ran a personal best of 2:49:46 at last year’s Volkswagen Prague Marathon. sponsor: – | country: Czech Republic

VOLKSWAGEN PRAGUE MARATHON 2018

START LIST – ELITE ATHLETES – WOMEN number 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

nationality ETH ETH ETH POR KEN ETH KEN ETH KEN KEN ITA CZE CZE CZE CZE HUN ITA CZE

name and surname Amane BERISO Amane GOBENA Belaynesh OLJIRA Sara MOREIRA Flomena CHEPCHIRCHIR Meseret MENGISTU Risper CHEBET Koren JELELA Bornes Jepkirui KITUR Susan JEPTOO Teresa MONTRONE Ivana SEKYROVÁ Petra PASTOROVÁ Tereza ĎURDIAKOVÁ Dagmar RYCHNOVSKÁ Andrea SZEDERKÉNYI-TAKÁCS Gloria Rita Antonia GIUDICI Eva FILIPIOVÁ

date of birth 13. 10. 1991 11. 9. 1982 26. 6. 1990 17. 10. 1985 1. 12. 1981 6. 3. 1990 6. 6. 1992 18. 1. 1987 23. 11. 1986 7. 3. 1987 5. 8. 1988 13. 10. 1971 6. 1. 1977 20. 2. 1991 26. 4. 1975 6. 5. 1981 13. 8. 1987 26. 5. 1986

marathon time 02:20:48 02:21:51 02:24:21 02:24:49 02:23:00 02:23:26 02:27:23 02:27:XX 02:28:48 02:30:56 02:38:55 02:34:21 02:36:44 02:48:59 02:49:46 02:44:20 02:47:30 02:53:00

A number of anniversaries worthy of grand celebrations await us in 2018. Therefore, let’s recall the events that accompanied us through our shared century and take inspiration from the people who pushed our nation forward with their ideas.

FLYING WITH PASSION SINCE 1923

www.czechandslovakcentury.com

RunCzech, a place to fuel your running passion Introducing RunCzech – the perfect compromise between competitive and lifestyle runs. All our events are organised to a professional standard, appealing to a range of people who rightly call themselves runners. The races are primarily designed for those who run for pleasure or perhaps don’t run at all but

have a secret, untapped urge to start. We’re committed to getting regular people off the sofa, out of the house, to have fun while also do something good for their body. A total of 82 883 runners from 116 countries took part in RunCzech races in 2017.

RunCzech races 2018 Sportisimo Prague Half Marathon 7 April Volkswagen Prague Marathon 6 May Mattoni Karlovy Vary Half Marathon 19 May Mattoni České Budějovice Half Marathon 2 June O 2 Prague Relay 13 and 14 June Mattoni Olomouc Half Marathon 23 June Birell Prague Grand Prix 8 September Mattoni Ústí nad Labem Half Marathon 15 September

VOLKSWAGEN PRAGUE MARATHON 2018 | 28

VOLKSWAGEN PRAGUE MARATHON 2018

Everyone is a winner at RunCzech Races The Kenyan crosses the finish line in record timing. The best of the Czechs can be spotted far behind. Now try to imagine a race where everyone had a chance of winning. Impossible? Not at RunCzech races! Thanks to the RunCzech League’s unique system which splits runners up according to gender, age and above all 68 different professions, you also have the chance to bask in winning glory at RunCzech races. For each race completed you pick up points which are then added to your overall ranking. As such you can monitor how well you’re doing in the categories of best baker, hairdresser or manager. A special

algorithm also means women are on an even keel to men. More than 26 thousand runners took part in last year’s Running League with awards in over 300 categories at the end of the season. “I had no idea that I’d won in my category at the RunCzech Running League. I only found out when I received a package filled with prizes. I was

Partners ÉQUIVALENCE QUADRICHROMIE GEFCO GEF_17_11620_Logo_SignVertiBleu_Quad 16/10/2017 24, rue Salomon de Rothschild - 92288 Suresnes - FRANCE Tél. : +33 (0)1 57 32 87 00 / Fax : +33 (0)1 57 32 87 87 Web : www.carrenoir.com

Ce fichier est un document d’exécution créé sur Illustrator version CS6.

MAGENTA 20 % JAUNE 100 %

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surprised and really chuffed at the same time,” says scientist at Prague’s Czech University of Life Sciences Klára Urbanová of her unexpected triumph. You just need to run at least 3 races to have your chance in the limelight at this year’s RunCzech Running League.

Run with RunCzech in 2018 The running season has begun and we can look forward to more and more exciting events! Seven International Association of the Athletics Federation (IAAF) Gold Label races, plus the popular O2 Prague Relay and plenty of other features. Read on to find out. The millionth runner An incredible 972 952 runners. This is how many runners have joined RunCzech races since the first marathon back in 1995. And we’re set to surpass the magical million figure at this year’s Volkswagen Prague Marathon. “This means that we’ve managed to change the lives of ten percent of the Czech population, getting an incredible number of people moving,” a proud Carlo Capalbo reveals, adding: “We really appreciate your support and hope you remain with us in the coming years.”

VOLKSWAGEN PRAGUE MARATHON 2018 | 30

SPORTISIMO 1/2MARATON PRAHA 2018

Preregistrations The option for runners to preregister for races was one of the most anticipated new features this year. In practice it means that if a runner isn’t able to take part in a race, for a small fee s/ he can transfer the start fee to someone else. Preregistrations are carried out on www.runczech.com, take a short time to complete and are charged at just one hundred Crowns.

A brand new race in Liberec RunCzech is heading out into nature, specifically to the heart of the Jizera Mountains in Liberec. Largely set in the countryside, the race kicks off in the city centre and takes runners into the forests of the Jizera Mountains, with courses of 12 and 22 kilometres. “We’re working on preparations for this new race to be held on Sunday 7th October. Discussions are currently under way with the city, region and partners, we’re putting together all the materials and will be

able to reveal all the information soon,” reveals RunCzech race director, Václav Skřivánek.

EuroHeroes RuncCzech wants to discover new heroes and to create local legends that will inspire others to take up sport and lead an active lifestyle. For this reason RunCzech will dedicate two of its IAAF Gold Label races - Mattoni Karlovy Vary Half Marathon (19 May) and Mattoni České Budějovice Half Marathon (2 June). For the elite field of these two races the organizers will invite only European athletes including the best Czech runners

RunCzech going international These days RunCzech races are no longer confined to the Czech Republic only. They are now also being staged in Italy and Kenya! Runners have the chance to take part in two races held on the Italian Peninsula in and around Naples: the Coast to Coast held in December and the

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Napoli City Half Marathon in February, known collectively as the Napoli Running project. In addition, the Aloha Zane Branson Memorial race held twice a year in Africa offers top, fresh talent the chance to compete alongside one another.

Next edition of RunCzech races held abroad ALOHA ZANE BRANSON MEMORIAL coorganized with Ikaika Sports, Kabarak, Kenya, (15 km), February & July 2018 SORRENTO-POSITANO Sorrento, Italy, (28 and 54 km), 2 December 2018 NAPOLI CITY HALF MARATHON Napoli, Italy, (21 km), 24 February 2019

Running Mall – The Running Centre The “Running Mall” Running Center is a meeting place for some of the finest distance runners in the world. But it’s also a portal of sorts, a gateway to running for people just getting into the sport. Housed in Prague’s hip Holešovice District, very near Stromovka and Letná parks, it offers

Energy at Work Bring along the whole company for an action-packed day! Energy at Work gives your employees the opportunity to get fitter both physically and mentally, which translates to greater verve and efficiency in the workplace, enhanced internal communications and a better overall team. All through our personalised and interactive programme comprising sporting as well as non-sporting challenges!

VOLKSWAGEN PRAGUE MARATHON 2018 | 32

yoga, weight training, training for beginners, running advice and seminars. Everybody can visit also adidas running – Prague Marathon Store where he will be helped to choose the running equipement and provided the gait diagnostics and analysis.

RUNNING YOGA FUNCTIONAL TRAINING SESSIONS WORKSHOPS AND SEMINARS ADIDAS STORE RUNNING TRAINING SESSIONS

Try a Foursome Many hands make light work, and the same applies to sport (except maybe swapping those hands for feet, right?) So what’s the best way to bring a group closer? By creating a relay of course! Nobody wants to let a fellow team member down and the powerful force of spurring each other on is not to be underestimated when you’re struggling to make it across the finish. Get you have your very own unique relay experience on 13th and 14th June at the O2 Prague Relay in Stromovka. How to go about it? Just get together a team of four people and prepare each relay member to complete a five-kilometre stretch. You can expect strong support from fans along the way plus refreshment stations to keep you going. A picnic basket and medals await your team as you cross the finish line, followed by a post-race concert to celebrate your victory. The relay spans two days so just choose which day best suits you and get out there! Still slightly hesitant? Have a listen to what Petra, receptionist from Prague, has to say about last year’s Prague Relay: “I occasionally went for a run at the weekend, but it never occurred to me to sign up for a race. But then

a friend wrote to say they needed another runner to join their Prague Relay team. I turned up in Stromovka on the big day and didn’t know whether I’d finish last and the others would abandon me. So bowled over was I by the race atmosphere and fans cheering us on along the course that I ran my fastest race ever. And at the finish we celebrated the occasion like it was the Olympics! For this reason, I want to run again this year and I’ve already signed up my sister too,” she adds, smiling. Get together three friends to make four and give it a go! Registration details and more info about the Prague Relay can be found on runczech.com

RUNCZECH TEAM Roberto Franzoni Tomáš Hatka Dagmar Heroldová Tomáš Hubený Štepán Hickl Katarína Hižová Renata Chlastáková Kristýna Ivančíková Milan Janoušek Karolína Jiránková Vladimíra Jiřičná Josef Klouda Kateřina Kolářová Kristýna Košová

Sašo Belovski Martina Bernardová Aneta Boudová Zdeněk Bříza Jaroslav Bureš Carlo Capalbo Tomáš Coufal Jan Cvachovec Roberto De Blasio Vladimír Drábek Kristýna Dvořáková Tomáš Fencl Vojta Fejtek Jana Fráňová

Martina Kozáková Jarmila Krauskopfová Viera Křivohlavá Jan Laták Miroslav Lenc Tadeáš Mahel Jaroslav Medřický Tomáš Mirovský James Moberly Jana Moberly Igor Murko Dario Monti Václav Mudra Igor Murko

Bojan Nanković Tomáš Nesrsta Kristina Rudišová Diana Rybachenko Kamila Rybková Flavio Serughetti Václav Skřivánek Zdeněk Slezák Dan Stach Viktor Starzewski Daniel Šimík Desana Šourková Michal Vávra Evgeniia Zhgir

HONORARY COMMITEE Miloš Zeman

Pavel Richter

Adam Vojtěch

Monika Palatková

President of the Czech Republic

Mayor of the Municipal Prague 5 District

Minister of Health

Director of CzechTourism

Martin Stropnický

Miloš Trojánek

Prime minister of the Czech Rep.

Jan Čižinský

Minister of Foreign Affairs

Adriana Krnáčová

Mayor of the Municipal Prague 7 District

Klára Dostálová

Director of the Regional Police Directorate of the City of Prague

Roman Petrus

Minister of Regional Development

Eduard Šuster

Mayor of the Municipal Prague 8 District

Libor Varhaník

Director of the Municipal Police of Prague

Jiří Kejval

Chairman of the Czech Athletic Federation

Andrej Babiš

Mayor of Prague

Oldřich Lomecký Mayor of the Municipal Prague 1 District

Jana Černochová Mayor of the Municipal Prague 2 District

Chairman of the Czech Olympic Committee

Robert Plaga Petr Štěpánek Mayor of the Municipal Prague 4 District

VOLKSWAGEN PRAGUE MARATHON 2018 | 34

Minister of Education, Youth and Sport

Dana Kovaříková Head of Representation of the European Commission in the Czech Republic

adidas_SS18_ULTRABOOST_ATL_RUN_WOMEN_inzerce_RunCzech_210x140.indd 1

09.03.18 10:23

ALL RUNNERS ARE BEAUTIFUL SORRENTO - POSITANO

ULTRA MARATHON 54 KM | PANORAMIC 27 KM

2 DECEMBER 2018

NAPOLI CITY HALF MARATHON 24 FEBRUARY 2019

WWW.NAPOLIRUNNING.COM Main partners

Official partners

Institutions and patrons

RUNCZECH RACES 2018 NAPOLI CITY HALF MARATHON 4 FEBRUARY

SPORTISIMO PRAGUE

VOLKSWAGEN PRAGUE

7 APRIL

6 MAY

HALF MARATHON

MARATHON

MATTONI KARLOVY VARY

MATTONI ČESKÉ BUDĚJOVICE

19 MAY

2 JUNE

HALF MARATHON

PRAGUE RELAY

MATTONI OLOMOUC

HALF MARATHON

BIRELL PRAGUE GRAND PRIX

13-14 JUNE

23 JUNE

8 SEPT.

MATTONI ÚSTÍ NAD LABEM

LIBEREC NATURE RUN

SORRENTO POSITANO

15 SEPT.

7 OCTOBER

2 DECEMBER

HALF MARATHON

5 & 10 KM

27 & 54 KM

ALL RUNNERS ARE BEAUTIFUL