Generali Prague Half Marathon Opens Registration with a New Ballot System

Registration for the 2027 Generali Prague Half Marathon is now open. In response to significantly increased demand, the organisers are introducing a ballot system for the first time. Runners can apply for a race entry over a three-week period.

From Tuesday, 21 July, interested runners can submit their application for a place in the Generali Prague Half Marathon. The 27th edition of the race will take place on 3 April 2027.

The Prague Half Marathon is one of Europe's most popular running events. The course runs through the historic centre of the Czech capital. The race holds the World Athletics Elite Label and is part of the European SuperHalfs half marathon series. It is also one of the most sought-after events in the RunCzech programme.

Demand for race entries has increased significantly in recent years. For the 26th edition at the end of March, participation was capped at 17,000 runners. According to the organisers, however, more than 100,000 people attempted to register immediately after registration opened.

Foto: RunCzech

For this reason, RunCzech is replacing the previous first-come, first-served system with a ballot. Until now, race entries were allocated to those who completed the registration form the fastest once registration opened.

"With demand increasing so rapidly, the race sold out within a matter of hours," said Carlo Capalbo, President of the RunCzech Organising Committee. Success often depended on just a few seconds, the speed of an internet connection, or simply being online at the right moment. The new system is intended to provide fairer conditions.

Ballot system already established at major races

Ballot systems are already widely used at international running events. The other races in the SuperHalfs series, as well as several Abbott World Marathon Majors, including London, New York, Berlin, Chicago and Tokyo, all allocate race entries in this way.

According to the organisers, the new system is intended not only to respond to high demand but also to reduce the stress associated with the registration process.

Foto: RunCzech

How the application process works

The application period will remain open for three weeks. The exact time an application is submitted during this period has no effect on the chances of being selected in the ballot.

Once the application period has ended, the available race entries will be allocated at random. Successful applicants will receive a personal registration code and payment instructions by email within ten days.

The entry fee must then be paid within seven calendar days. If payment is not received within this period, the offer of a race entry will expire.

Foto: RunCzech

Applying with a running partner

Applicants may also nominate a running partner. If either of the two applicants is selected in the ballot, both will have the opportunity to purchase a race entry.

This arrangement applies exclusively to pairs. Race entries are personal and cannot be transferred to another person.

Participants who are unsuccessful in the ballot will also be informed by email. They will receive information about alternative ways to take part, for example through charity partners.

The application period for the 2027 Generali Prague Half Marathon has been open since 21 July 2026. Further information and the full ballot rules are available on the organiser's official website.



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