The brand new marathon starts in Ostrava – on a single certified circuit, with international participation and television coverage. It is named after the legendary runner Emil Zátopek, who was declared the Czech Olympian of the century, among other accolades. It will also feature the 12th edition of the Czech Women's Run in Ostrava. On Saturday, 26th October at the Municipal Stadium in Ostrava-Vítkovice, a total of 10 races will start, ranging from those for children and families to beginner female runners and marathon competitors. There will also be relays and team races. In the area where the world's best athletes regularly compete, runners and fans can expect a whole day of sports, workshops, good food, competitions, concerts, activities for children, a traditional expo, and stalls with designer products. The event is organized by SSK Vítkovice, which builds on the successful organization of 62 editions of the Golden Spike Ostrava. “A big marathon has been our dream for a long time, but for various reasons, we have postponed it. In the year when Vítkovice athletics celebrates 100 years since its founding, it is the right time to organize it. It bears the name of Emil Zátopek, one of the world marathon legends, who set his first two world records in the 10,000 meters right at the Vítkovice stadium. That was the first major chapter of his story, and I hope we can build on it,”" says Oldřich Zvolánek, chairman of the event's organizing committee. Emil Zátopek set the world record in the 10,000 meters in Ostrava in June 1949 and subsequently improved it by seven seconds in October. He broke 18 world records and over 50 Czechoslovak records. The Municipal Stadium in Ostrava features his bust and a plaque awarded by the World Athletics Heritage in December 2018. THE MARATHON ROUTE ALSO PASSES THROUGH DOLNÍ VÍTKOVICE TRAFFIC RESTRICTIONS ON 26TH OCTOBER 2024