Trainers, cap and a good performance at the Prague Marathon

Perhaps running a marathon isn’t the kind of project you’d like to do at least once in your life. You need to be in good physical condition and, above all, not be afraid of the effort. But you deserve to know that some of these great races go beyond burning calories and proving to yourself that you’re capable of pushing your limits. At least, that’s what the Volkswagen Prague Marathon guarantees!

Increasingly popular with runners, this Czech race is an excellent way to combine sightseeing and physical activity. The experience of a route unlike any other, off the beaten track, without leaving the city.

On your marks! Ready, set, go for the Prague Marathon!

The Prague Marathon, a race not to be missed

With its millennia of eventful history, its murky but surprising secrets and its diverse but constantly fascinating heritage, there’s no doubt that Prague is a European city of profound cultural richness. But did you know that once a year the Czech capital puts its characteristic easy-going lifestyle on hold and goes into ‘running’ mode?

In fact, every year in May, there’s a day when the pace in the city quickens dramatically and every minute counts. In other words, the new edition of the Prague Marathon is here!

Founded in 1995, the Volkswagen Prague Marathon, as it is known, is ranked among the top ten marathons in the world. Due to its great popularity, runners of all levels and origins (2/3 of the participants come from 40 to 50 foreign countries) are coming in ever-increasing numbers (on average 10,000/year) to compete against each other in this not-to-be-missed event in the world of sport.

All the historical and natural beauty of Prague is showcased on an exceptional 42km course. So much so that the IAAF (International Association of Athletics Federations) has awarded the Prague Marathon its gold label. A guarantee of high standards and quality, this prestigious distinction, valid for 1 year, categorises the best elite races on the globe.

How did the adventure begin?

In 2023, the Prague Marathon will be 28 years old. That’s a lot of kilometres covered, race numbers distributed and running enthusiasts who have come to wear out the soles of their trainers on the cobbles of the Czech capital. But for this emblematic race on the world circuit to remain the challenge of a lifetime for those who want it, it first had to be invented.

Crazy as it may sound, the idea of organising the Prague Marathon was born over a pint of beer between two friends. Incredible, but true!

Sitting at a bar, Carlo Capalbo and Gelindo Bordin (winner of the 1988 Seoul Olympic marathon) imagined and drew on a napkin the route of a race in Prague. Convinced of the potential of this route, they called on Emil Zatopek (triple gold medallist at the Helsinki Summer Olympics) to bring their project to life. The patronage was signed, the idea was launched and year after year, it has been a success. Frankly, who would have thought that a hand-drawn sketch on a napkin would result in one of the most international races?

The type of course to expect

Since its creation, the route of the Prague Marathon has evolved with the times and the changing expectations of its participants. In 2004, the race organisers redesigned the 42km course to include a larger loop through the city centre. In this way, the race continues to fulfil its sporting objective while at the same time allowing participants to discover the treasures of Prague. From a tourist point of view, it’s a clever move. As for the spectators, they’ve never been so close to their stars.

From start to finish

To make things easier, the finish line of the Prague Marathon is exactly the same as the start line. Runners start and finish their race on the Old Town Square, near the Astronomical Clock.

At 9 a.m. sharp, all the participants, more motivated than ever, set off on their journey. On either side of the river Vltava, they run through the various districts of the capital and enjoy a range of historical, natural, artistic and cultural landscapes. But there’s no need to let your daydreaming and escapism get the better of you, because the clock is ticking fast and the challenge has to be completed in the allotted time of 7 hours.

To keep up with the pace, refreshment points have been set up every 2.5 km.

Do I have what it takes?

You’d like to try it, but you’re afraid you’re not up to it? There’s no need to worry.

Obviously, the more stamina you have, the easier it will be to reach the 42 km marathon mark. However, the course is described as fairly flat and fast. The only major difficulties to be taken into account are the cobbles in the old town and crossing the tram tracks. Balance can be a problem.

After that, it’s worth bearing in mind that everyone has their own level. We’re not asking you to beat the record set by Kenya’s Eliu Kiptanui, who finished the course in 2h05 min 39 sec when he took part in 2010.

Other highlights of the day

As well as this legendary 42 km race, the Volkswagen Marathon Prague includes other parallel activities. These include the Marathon Music Festival, where you can run to the rhythm of local and international bands. There’s also the Sport Expo, where you can find out all about the latest sports facilities and equipment. And let’s not forget the Family Minimarathon, which at 4.2km is suitable for everyone.

And if sport really isn’t your area of expertise, you should know that the runners will always be delighted to be accompanied by your encouragement and smiles during the effort.

The next edition is for me!

The decision’s been made: the Volkswagen Prague Marathon will be your next sporting challenge! Whether you’re used to taking part in this kind of event or you’re new to it, the information you need to know beforehand is the same for everyone. So here’s a quick overview!

This way to registration

There’s only one way to take part in the marathon. You need to go online to the RunCzech website. Once you’ve done that, you’ll quickly receive an email containing a unique identifier and password. These two details will be used to log into your account to access orders and payments.

It’s important to know that the price of membership increases according to the number of registrations already recorded in real time for the race. Here are the average prices:

• From the 1st to the 3200th registrant: €64.03
• From the 3201st to the 6400th registrant: €100.31
• From the 6401st registrant: €121.60

This fee includes a number with a timing chip, free access to public transport on race day, a medal at the finish, a runner’s bag, an online diploma, etc.

All those registered for the marathon will receive their start number by email, no later than 3 weeks before the race.

Being ready for the big day

Running a marathon really isn’t easy! It’s a performance that requires work, investment and preparation before, during and even after the effort. To make sure you have a good time and put all the chances on your side, you need to adopt certain behaviours and reflexes, whether obvious or not. Here are the ones we’ve remembered (for this marathon or any other):

• Get a good night’s sleep
• Get to know the course before the start
• Draw up a plan for refuelling along the route and make sure you stick to it
• Avoid new shoes, which will hurt you twice over on the cobbles
• Make sure you’re not too overcast, as the sun can quickly come out
• Don’t give your all at the start of the race. 42 km is longer than you think.
• Go at your own pace
• Think positively when the going gets tough
• And above all, make the most of the present moment

To all those who are (re)taking the plunge, we wish you good luck!