This race is an expedition into the history of Central Bohemia and the surroundings of Prague. It starts in the centre of the ancient town of Rakovnik, known among others by one of the oldest country breweries. Right after the start there are several short but steep climbs followed by technical descents on narrow and dirty forest roads. An ideal place to create an escape of the day. During this part the riders will pass the La...
Read moreThis race is an expedition into the history of Central Bohemia and the surroundings of Prague. It starts in the centre of the ancient town of Rakovnik, known among others by one of the oldest country breweries. Right after the start there are several short but steep climbs followed by technical descents on narrow and dirty forest roads. An ideal place to create an escape of the day. During this part the riders will pass the Lany Castle, the summer residence of Czech presidents. The terrain remains unchanged until the first passage past the hunting castle of K?ivoklát, which was used by Czech kings and princes mainly for hunting in the surrounding forests.
From the castle, the race route leads through the Berounka valley, followed by the two most difficult climbs of the race. The first rider on the second of these climbs, which is the most demanding of the day, will be awarded the King of the Mountains crown. The descent from the top of this hill brings the peloton to the village and manor of Zbiroh, one of the oldest aristocratic castles in Bohemia.
The descent continues to the majestic ruins of Zebrak Castle. Today's ruins were a luxurious royal residence during the reign of the Luxembourg dynasty on the Czech throne. When the riders are here, the most challenging part of the day is over. A narrow but almost flat road leads the riders to most famous castle in Central Bohemia, Karlstejn. Karel IV built it as a place for safekeeping the Imperial Regalia as well as the Bohemian Crown Jewels, holy relics, and other royal treasures. Now it is visited by thousands of people every single day.
By then, the riders are almost approaching the city of Prague where is the finish line. They however still have to pass several short steep climbs. Using the road from village Trebotov (known especially and only because it is a place where PEKAC B team has their headquarters), the peloton enters Prague in Radotin, the same place through which Horymir and his horse Semik made their fabulous escape.
From there, you drive along the Berounka and Vltava rivers to the historical centre of Prague. The grand finale of the race starts with a steep cobbled uphill from via Nerudova Street to Prague Castle, followed by a gentler asphalt climb up to Strahov Hill. The home straight is then located in front of the "gate of champions", the main entrance into the monstrous Strahov Stadium.
If the sprinters arrive here in the first group, they have a great chance to win, otherwise the fastest of the leading group will win.
