Ostrava hosts the First Year of an International Emil Zátopek Marathon

A brand-new new marathon will take place in Ostrava on its only certified track with international attendance and TV coverage. The race bears the name of Emil Zátopek, a legendary runner who was declared the Czech Olympic champion of the century. Part of the race will also include the 12th Czech Women’s Run Ostrava. The total of 10 races for children, families, beginners, or experienced runners will start on Saturday, October 26th at the City Stadium in Ostrava-Vítkovice, encompassing relays and team runs. Runners and fans can enjoy a whole day of sport, workshops, good food, contests, concerts, activities for children, expo and stalls with design products at the stadium where world-class athletes regularly compete. The organizer SSK Vítkovice builds on the organizational success of 62 years of Zlatá tretra Ostrava. “A big marathon has been our dream for a long time, but for various reasons we kept postponing it. Now when Vitkovice athletics celebrates 100 years since its establishment, it seems like the right time to organize it. The race bears the name of Emil Zátopek, one of the world’s marathons legends, who set his first two world records in the 10 000 metres right at the Vítkovice stadium. It marked the first big chapter of his life and I hope we will be able to follow in his footsteps.” says Oldřich Zvolánek, chairman of the event’s organizing committee.

Emil Zátopek set the world record for 10 000 metres in June 1949 in Ostrava and then improved it by seven seconds in October. He broke 18 world records and over 50 Czechoslovak records. His bust and a World Athletics Heritage Plaque awarded in December 2018 are displayed at the Ostrava City Stadium.

“The whole concept is based on experienced organizers, high-quality track and excellent facilities as well as meticulous attention to the runners, visitors and fans.” describes Šárka Mokrá, the project’s executive director. “Our vision does not include thousands of runners, but rather delivering a good quality race where every participant matters and we strive to provide the best service for them before, during and after the race. Apart from a rich accompanying programme we will also ensure amenities like toilets, refreshment stations, medical and security services along the track, both at the start and the finish. We are also adding physiotherapeutic services and massages in addition to changing rooms, showers, locker rooms, warm-up, and refreshments after the race.” adds Šárka Mokrá.