...to the Czech Republic after a two-year absence with one goal in mind – to win.  At least five other African athletes will be taking part with the same ambitions.  As such, the Mattoni České Budějovice Half Marathon, IAAF Gold Label race, promises to deliver a dramatic spectacle.  We’re also expecting to see a well-balanced battle play out among the women, with Kenyan runners Lucy Kabuu and Rebeca Chesir both with their sights set on victory. Czech fans can look forward to seeing České Budějovice local Jan Kreisinger take part along with five-times national marathon champion Petr Pechek and women veterans Ivana Sekyrová and Dagmar Rychnovská.

Confirmation of Wilson Kipsang at the start line is testimony to the fact that regional RunCzech Running League races are also a big draw for the very best runners. “Fans and all those taking part in the Mattoni České Budějovice Half Marathon will have the unique chance to see one of the best long-distance runners of our time and beyond. Wilson Kipsang is a big name in the long-distance running world – evidence for which can be seen in his results which are truly mind-blowing,” RunCzech Organising Committee President, Carlo Capalbo reveals.

Aside from winning four World Marathon Majors (Berlin, London, New York and Tokyo), Kipsang also boasts a bronze medal from the London Olympics, while is also a former holder of the world marathon record and ranks as the only long-distance runner in history to have managed to complete the marathon a total of four times in under two hours and four minutes.  But not even a star like Kipsang can afford to take victory for granted on the České Budějovice course. “Kipsang will face fierce competition at the start line including rivals such as Justus Kangogo who managed to complete the Rome half marathon in under one hour. The Kenyan group of runners is expected to be rock solid – with Henry Kiplagat, Abraham Akopesh and Kennedy Kipyego all competing,” Elite Runner Manager, Jana Moberly reveals. Brazilian runner Paulo Paula and a group of Japanese racers headed by Taku Fujimoto promise to add a bit of diversity to the elite camp of African stars.

Also hailing from the land of the rising sun, is female representative Ayaka Fujimoto.  However with a personal best time of 1:06:34 and returning to the scene after a long break, Lucy Kabuu is the anticipated hot favourite to win, though fellow compatriot Rebecca Chesir is expected to put up a fight.

The sixth Mattoni České Budějovice Half Marathon kicks off from Přemysl Otakar II Square at 18.30 on Saturday 3^rd June. In addition to 3 500 participants joining the main race, a further 3 000 runners are expected to take part in the dm Family Run. The České Budějovice race will be broadcast live by national ČT Sport as well as worldwide online on RunCzech.com.