She stated she will forego any attempt to represent the Czech Republic for the fourth time in the Winter Olympics in order to concentrate on running. Marathon training would not allow her to do the “ski training necessary for her to be competative” and she does not wish to fight for a place on the team just for the trip. The opportunity to race in the World’s largest and perhaps most iconic marathon was a very strong reason to continue her running career through the 17/18 winter.

For her New York is “another world”. For someone who comes from a small town in the Czech Republic “it’s impossible”.

She stated she has been able to continue training since arriving but a lack of sleep due to the time difference and a soreness in one leg are causing her some concerns. She is aware of the hills in Central Park having raced in the New York Mini 10K earlier this year and training in the Park this week. Those hills plus the many bridges along the course make this race not conducive to record breaking performances, but a strong run and a high placement here in front of the international media and sport insiders would do a great deal to advance her career. A brief meeting with Tad Hayano, the Tokyo Marathon Race Director, in the Hilton Hotel lobby could hopefully lead to future travel and racing in another big city.