Race day at the Prague Marathon is an unforgettable experience. From the electric atmosphere at Old Town Square to running across the historic Charles Bridge, every kilometer offers something special. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate race day with confidence.

Before Race Day

Your race day success begins with proper preparation in the days leading up to the event.

Expo and Bib Collection

The Prague Marathon Expo typically opens on Thursday before the Sunday race and runs through Saturday. Here you will:

  • Collect your race bib and timing chip
  • Receive your race packet with essential information
  • Browse running gear and nutrition products from various vendors
  • Attend informational sessions about the course and race logistics
Important Reminder

You must collect your bib in person with valid identification. Bibs cannot be collected on race morning. Plan to visit the expo well in advance to avoid last-minute stress.

The Day Before

Saturday should be a day of rest and preparation:

  • Lay out all your race gear the night before
  • Pin your bib to your race shirt
  • Charge your GPS watch
  • Eat a familiar dinner with easily digestible carbohydrates
  • Stay hydrated but don't overdo it
  • Get to bed early, even if you can't sleep
  • Set multiple alarms for race morning

Race Morning

A smooth race morning routine sets the tone for a successful marathon.

Morning Timeline

With a typical 9:00 AM start time, consider this schedule:

  • 5:30-6:00 AM: Wake up, have a light breakfast
  • 6:30 AM: Final bathroom visit, dress in race gear
  • 7:00-7:30 AM: Travel to start area
  • 7:30-8:15 AM: Arrive at Old Town Square, use toilets, drop bag
  • 8:15-8:45 AM: Light warm-up, find your starting corral
  • 8:45 AM: Enter starting corral
  • 9:00 AM: Race start

What to Eat

Stick to familiar foods that you've practiced during training. Common marathon breakfast choices include:

  • Toast or bagel with peanut butter or jam
  • Oatmeal with banana
  • Energy bar with coffee or tea
  • Rice or pasta (for some runners)

Eat 3-4 hours before the start to allow for digestion. Avoid anything high in fiber or fat.

The Course

The Prague Marathon course is famous for its flat profile and stunning scenery. Understanding the course will help you pace effectively and enjoy the experience.

Course Highlights

The route takes you through Prague's most iconic locations:

  • Kilometers 0-5: Start in Old Town Square, pass the Astronomical Clock, head toward the river
  • Kilometers 5-15: Run along the Vltava River with views of Prague Castle, cross Charles Bridge (one of the race highlights)
  • Kilometers 15-25: Journey through residential areas and parks, maintaining steady pace
  • Kilometers 25-35: Return toward the city center, pass through Prague's diverse neighborhoods
  • Kilometers 35-42: Final push through Old Town, finish where you started in Old Town Square

Course Profile

The Prague course is one of the flattest major marathons in the world:

  • Total elevation gain: approximately 66 meters
  • Highest point: around 210 meters above sea level
  • Lowest point: around 180 meters above sea level
  • Surface: Primarily asphalt with some cobblestone sections in the historic center
Cobblestone Sections

Be prepared for cobblestone sections when running through the historic center, particularly near Charles Bridge and Old Town. These surfaces require extra attention to footing but add to the unique character of the race.

Race Day Strategy

A good strategy can make the difference between a great race and a difficult one.

Pacing

The most common mistake in marathon running is starting too fast. Consider these pacing strategies:

  • Even pacing: Run each kilometer at approximately the same pace throughout
  • Negative split: Run the second half slightly faster than the first
  • Start conservative: Your first 5 kilometers should feel almost too easy
  • Use pacers: Prague Marathon provides official pace groups, consider running with one if available for your target time
"The first half of the marathon is run with your legs. The second half is run with your mind."

Aid Stations

Aid stations are positioned every 5 kilometers and offer:

  • Water
  • Sports drinks (usually isotonic)
  • Energy gels or similar nutrition (at select stations)
  • Sponges (in warmer conditions)

Practice grabbing cups and drinking while moving during your training runs. Slow slightly when approaching aid stations to avoid spilling.

Managing the Distance

Breaking down the marathon into smaller segments makes it more manageable:

  • Kilometers 0-10: Find your rhythm, resist the urge to go faster
  • Kilometers 10-21: Settle into your target pace, stay relaxed
  • Kilometers 21-32: The middle miles, maintain focus and consistency
  • Kilometers 32-38: The challenging stretch, dig into your mental reserves
  • Kilometers 38-42: The final push, embrace the crowds and finish strong

After You Finish

Crossing the finish line is an incredible moment, but your race day isn't quite over.

Immediate Post-Race

  • Keep walking to prevent blood pooling and dizziness
  • Collect your finisher medal and recovery supplies
  • Wrap yourself in the heat sheet provided if cold
  • Begin rehydrating with water and sports drinks
  • Eat something within 30-60 minutes to start recovery
  • Collect your gear bag

Recovery Tips

The days following your marathon are important for recovery:

  • Take it easy for at least a week, light walking is fine
  • Stay hydrated and eat nutritious foods
  • Consider light stretching or gentle yoga
  • Celebrate your achievement!
  • Share your experience with fellow runners

Practical Information

Essential logistics for a smooth race day experience.

Transportation

Getting to Old Town Square on race morning:

  • Metro: Staromestska station (Line A) is closest to Old Town Square
  • Walking: If your hotel is in the center, walking may be the easiest option
  • Allow extra time: Public transport will be busier than usual on race morning

Weather Considerations

Early May in Prague typically offers excellent running conditions:

  • Average temperature: 10-18 degrees Celsius (50-65 degrees Fahrenheit)
  • Weather can be variable, check the forecast and prepare accordingly
  • Consider wearing layers that can be discarded early in the race
  • Sunscreen and a cap may be useful if sunny
Official Information

For the most current race day logistics, including exact start times, bag drop locations, and course updates, always refer to the official RunCzech website and the information provided in your race packet.

Embrace the Experience

The Prague Marathon is more than a race; it's an experience. Take time to appreciate running through one of Europe's most beautiful cities. The crowd support is exceptional, with over 100,000 spectators lining the course. Music stages appear every few kilometers, creating a festive atmosphere.

Remember why you're doing this. Months of training have prepared you for this day. Trust your preparation, respect the distance, and enjoy every kilometer of your Prague Marathon journey.