Technika Run brings together students, staff, alumni, their families, and friends of the university. Alongside sporting achievements, it has carried an important charitable dimension since its very beginning.
The first edition took place on 27 September 2016. A total of 189 runners took part in the 5 km and 10 km races, while 40 children joined the accompanying children's competitions. The organizers were pleased not only with the strong turnout at the pilot event but also with its international character. Students from a number of countries lined up at the starting line, and some of them even reached the podium. The inaugural edition supported the Křídlení Foundation Fund, specifically a project focused on children with Asperger syndrome. More than CZK 22,000 was raised.
The second edition confirmed that Technika Run was more than a one-off event. The number of registered participants increased to 266 runners, and the organizers introduced a new recreational category designed for less experienced runners. Another new feature was a team competition involving students and employees from different university departments. The proceeds were donated to the Ondrášek Mobile Hospice.
In the following years, Technika Run gradually established itself as a traditional autumn event on campus. Runners regularly set off from the university grounds through the surrounding forest park and around the planetarium. In 2018, 266 runners took part and the proceeds were donated to Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders).
The year 2020 left an unforgettable mark on the event’s history. The COVID-19 pandemic interrupted the continuity of the race, and the organizers were forced to cancel it for the first time. This made the event’s return in 2021 all the more rewarding, with 200 runners taking part. Favourable weather conditions and the enthusiasm of participants demonstrated that the Technika Run community had remained strong despite a challenging period.
The following edition once again saw growing participation and impressive athletic performances. The funds raised supported Médecins Sans Frontières. The seventh edition in 2023 welcomed 217 participants, including elite athletes associated with the university, and once again contributed to Médecins Sans Frontières. In 2024, 157 runners took part, and the proceeds supported the Ondrášek Mobile Hospice. Last year, participation nearly doubled, reaching 300 runners, who once again helped support the work of the Ondrášek Mobile Hospice through their involvement.
During its ten years of existence, Technika Run has connected thousands of participants across generations. Alongside students, the starting line regularly welcomes university employees, alumni, members of the university leadership, and entire families with children. Children's races have become an integral part of the programme and often represent the first sporting experience in a university environment for many young participants.
"What makes me happiest is seeing so many enthusiastic people come to Technika Run every year and unite for a good cause. That is what makes the event truly valuable," says Karolina Pospíšilová Ježková.
Even more important than race results, however, is the legacy that Technika Run leaves behind each year. Through entry fees and voluntary donations, tens of thousands of Czech crowns have been raised over the years to support organisations helping people facing difficult life situations.
"The charitable aspect gives the event a broader social significance. It is not only about sporting performance but also about the opportunity to help where assistance is needed most," explains the event organizer.
Technika Run continues to demonstrate that sport can be not only a way of overcoming personal limits but also a means of supporting others.
Technika Run is a story of sport, solidarity, and university community spirit. It is precisely this combination that has transformed an original idea into one of the university’s most popular events. Each new edition confirms that Technika Run is far more than a running race. It is above all a gathering of people who want to do something positive for their health, their university, and a good cause.
"If anyone is hesitant about taking part, I would invite them to experience the friendly atmosphere, enjoy a great sporting event, and support a worthy cause. That is what makes Technika Run truly special," concludes Karolina Pospíšilová Ježková.
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Text: Barbora Urbanovská
Photo: VSB-TUO Archive