Prague refreshes marathoners like no one else in the world. With beer.

Prague - It’s not uncommon for runners to carbo load with beer and pasta before a big race. It’s certainly not uncommon for runners to quench their thirst with a cold beer afterward. But beer during the race? That’s new.

Yet here in the city that makes what is arguably the world’s best beer, they’re going to give it a try at this year’s Volkswagen Prague Marathon, to be run May 13, 2007.

Race partner Staropramen will be offering (alcohol-free) beer to runners at designated refreshment points along the course. In addition, regular refreshment points along the course will provide the usual assortment of water, fruit and isotonic beverages. Asked how many runners he thought would opt for the beer, race director Carlo Capalbo responded, “I don’t have a clue. But it’s a fun idea, isn’t it?”

As is the tradition at the VW Prague Marathon, Staropramen will supply regular beer to runners free of charge at the Marathon’s pre-race pasta party. And at the conclusion of the marathon. “Sampling Staropramen at the city’s many pubs prior to the race,” Capalbo says, “is strongly encouraged.”

Other changes for the Marathon in 2007 include a new course which is confined entirely to the city center. That will make it easier for crowds to provide encouragement to runners along more of the course than in past years. And make the course more scenic for runners.

A new EXPO Center is also being debuted. The Marathon Sport Expo. The new space will be significantly bigger than in previous years. It will be more comfortable to shop in, or to lounge with friends. And it will feature a cultural podium where visitors can see fashion shows, presentations of new running technology and the presentation of elite athletes participating in the races. The mission of the new Expo is to create a kind of sports Mecca. Not just for runners, but for everyone interested in pursuing a healthy lifestyle.

As in past years, runners will receive free medals, magazines, t-shirts, discount coupons to tourist sites, free public transportation on race day and free massages. Plus, much more.

The Prague International Marathon (PIM) season kicks off March 24, with the Hervis Prague Half Marathon.

For more information on all PIM events, including on-line registration, visit www.praguemarathon.com.

Organization: Prague International Marathon, spol. s r.o.
Contact: Monika Klementová
Department: Communications
Email: klementova@pim.cz


Press release by Prague International Marathon, January, 17, 2007