{"id":14424,"date":"2025-08-29T10:39:14","date_gmt":"2025-08-29T08:39:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/prague.org\/?p=14424"},"modified":"2025-09-17T18:11:40","modified_gmt":"2025-09-17T16:11:40","slug":"velka-pardubicka-2025","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/prague.org\/nl\/velka-pardubicka-2025\/","title":{"rendered":"Velk\u00e1 Pardubick\u00e1 2025: Waar geschiedenis en bloedstollende actie elkaar ontmoeten"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><b>Velk\u00e1 Pardubick\u00e1 <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">is one of the most famous and dramatic horse races in the Czech Republic, with thousands of fans attending each year. Every October, the tranquil Czech city of Pardubice comes alive as the world focuses its attention on this famed event.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">De<\/span><b> Velk\u00e1 Pardubick\u00e1<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is Europe&#8217;s most difficult steeplechase, with riders and horses facing challenges that test courage, stamina, and pure heart. It began in 1874 and has since evolved into a cultural event rich in drama, history, and remarkable stories. Whether you&#8217;re a racing fan or a curious visitor, this year&#8217;s edition promises stunning moments that you won&#8217;t want to miss.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"what-is-the-velka-pardubicka\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What is the Velk\u00e1 pardubick\u00e1?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">De <\/span><b>Velk\u00e1 pardubick\u00e1<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is often regarded as the <\/span><b>toughest horse race in Europe<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. It is held on the second Sunday in October at the Pardubice Racecourse in eastern Czechia. The event covers 6.9 kilometres and includes 31 difficult obstacles, making it more than simply a speed test; it is a true battle of endurance, ability, and daring.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What sets it apart is its inherent unpredictability. Horses and jockeys must navigate water jumps, high banks, and the fabled Taxis Ditch, which is both feared and respected. Unlike flat racing, the <\/span><b>steeplechase Czech Republic<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> requires total synergy between rider and horse. The drama is unparalleled, with each edition featuring tales of success, heartbreak, and resilience.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"a-brief-history-of-horse-racing-in-czechia\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A brief history of horse racing in Czechia<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Horse racing in Czechia began in the mid-nineteenth century and was influenced by British steeplechasing traditions. The Pardubice Racecourse was built in 1856 primarily for tough cross-country races that would test both equine stamina and rider skill.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The inaugural <\/span><b>Velk\u00e1 Pardubick\u00e1<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> was held in 1874, and it has continued to be held practically every year since, despite wars, political changes, and economic hardships. Over the years, the event has become a symbol of Czech endurance and athletic spirit. Its longevity distinguishes it as a living monument to Czech cultural heritage.<\/span><\/p>\n<div data-gyg-href=\"https:\/\/widget.getyourguide.com\/default\/activities.frame\" data-gyg-locale-code=\"en-US\" data-gyg-widget=\"activities\" data-gyg-number-of-items=\"3\" data-gyg-partner-id=\"U94OQGQ\" data-gyg-tour-ids=\"1072970,52534,71381\">Aangedreven door <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/prague-l10\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored noopener nofollow\">GetYourGuide<\/a><\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"the-challenge-why-velka-pardubicka-is-legendary\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The challenge: why Velk\u00e1 pardubick\u00e1 is legendary<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">De <\/span><b>Velk\u00e1 pardubick\u00e1<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is no ordinary steeplechase, measuring 6.9 km in length. Its difficulties test both horse and rider to the maximum. Among them:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>The Taxis Ditch<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: This is the most notorious jump, a large ditch hidden behind a hedge that frequently decides the outcome of a race.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>The Snake Ditch:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> This is a meandering, technical obstacle that requires balance and control.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>The Irish Bank:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> It is a difficult climb and descent that requires coordination.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Water jumps and ditches<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: These two are interspersed throughout, keeping racers attentive until the finale.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In comparison to well-known events such as the Grand National in the United Kingdom, the <\/span><b>Pardubice horse race<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> track is considered more challenging. Only the most prepared and gutsy pairs stand a chance of finishing, let alone winning. This notoriety has given the race the distinction of being the <\/span><b>toughest horse race in Europe<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"famous-stories-from-past-races\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Famous stories from past races<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Every edition of the <\/span><b>Velk\u00e1 Pardubick\u00e1 <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">offers fresh drama, but the past has produced some of the most memorable moments in horse racing history. From historical champions to heart-stopping comebacks and emotional victories, these stories elevate the race above a mere competition and make it immortal.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Velk\u00e1 Pardubick\u00e1 is full of great moments:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Josef V\u00e1\u0148a rode the great horse \u017delezn\u00edk to four victories in the 1980s and early 1990s. Their partnership is still the most iconic in the race&#8217;s history.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">V\u00e1\u0148a became a national hero, won the race eight times as a jockey at the age of 58, elevating him to near-mythical status in Czech sports.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Over the years, the race has seen dramatic falls, surprise comebacks, and finishes that left spectators breathless. While perilous, it also represents resilience, courage, and a strong bond between horse and rider.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These stories have solidified the race&#8217;s place not just in Czech hearts, but also in the larger heritage of international steeplechasing.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"velka-pardubicka-2025-what-you-need-to-know\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Velk\u00e1 pardubick\u00e1 2025 \u2013 what you need to know<\/span><\/h2>\n<h3 id=\"expected-date-october-2025\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Expected date: October 2025<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">De <\/span><b>Velk\u00e1 Pardubick\u00e1 2025<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is expected to take place in October 2025; however, the actual date has yet to be determined. This classic <\/span><b>steeplechase Czech Republic<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is traditionally held on the second Sunday in October, making it one of the most important events on the Czech athletic calendar. Every year, thousands of people visit Pardubice Racecourse to witness not only a horse race but also a cultural celebration rich in history, tradition, and adrenaline.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"tickets-and-how-to-attend\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tickets and how to attend<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tickets for the Velk\u00e1 Pardubick\u00e1 typically go on sale months before the race and sell out rapidly due to the event&#8217;s popularity. Visitors can select from general admission standing sections, which provide a lively atmosphere near the action, or premium grandstand seating, which provides the best panoramic views of the course. To avoid disappointment, reserve your tickets or <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/zavodistepardubice.cz\/en\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">purchase online from the website<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> as soon as possible.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"best-way-to-watch-live-or-broadcast\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Best way to watch: Live or broadcast<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For those who are fortunate enough to attend in person, the atmosphere at the <\/span><b>Pardubice horse race<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is spectacular, with shouting spectators, thundering hooves, and a strong sense of Czech heritage. Even if you are unable to attend, you will not be disappointed. The race is shown live on Czech television and streamed on foreign online channels, allowing fans all over the world to watch from home..<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"tips-to-plan-your-visit\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tips to plan your visit<\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Book accommodation early<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Hotels in Pardubice and the surrounding environs sell out rapidly; book at least a month in advance.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Arrive early on race day<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Secure a good place and enjoy the pre-race events.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Wear comfortable shoes: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You&#8217;ll be wandering throughout the grounds.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Dress warmly<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: October in Pardubice can be chilly, so bring layers.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Enjoy pre-race activities<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: These festivities include fan zones, cultural exhibits, and mini races, which create a joyful mood before the major event.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div data-gyg-href=\"https:\/\/widget.getyourguide.com\/default\/activities.frame\" data-gyg-locale-code=\"en-US\" data-gyg-widget=\"activities\" data-gyg-number-of-items=\"3\" data-gyg-partner-id=\"U94OQGQ\" data-gyg-tour-ids=\"209055,53574,594806\">Aangedreven door <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/prague-l10\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored noopener nofollow\">GetYourGuide<\/a><\/div>\n<h2 id=\"how-to-get-to-pardubice-and-where-to-stay\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to get to Pardubice and where to stay<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Planning a trip to Pardubice? This picturesque East Bohemian city is known for its magnificent old town, delectable gingerbread, and world-class horse racing. Only 100 kilometres from Prague, it&#8217;s a simple and enjoyable destination for a day trip or a longer cultural getaway.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"transportation-options-from-prague-and-elsewhere\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Transportation options from Prague and elsewhere<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pardubice is approximately 100 km east of Prague, making it conveniently accessible:<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>By train<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Trains depart routinely from Prague&#8217;s main station and take slightly over an hour. This is the most convenient, cheap, and environmentally friendly alternative.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>By car:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Driving takes approximately 90 minutes on the D11 motorway. Travelling by automobile allows you to explore the surrounding area, including castles, villages, and nature reserves.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>By air:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Pardubice has a tiny regional airport, but most international visitors fly into <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/prague.org\/nl\/vaclav-havel-luchthaven-praag\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prague&#8217;s V\u00e1clav Havel Airport<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and then travel by rail or vehicle.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h3 id=\"where-to-stay-in-pardubice\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Where to stay in Pardubice<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pardubice has a variety of hotel alternatives to accommodate any traveller. Visitors can pick between lovely boutique hotels in the historic district, low-cost guesthouses, and modern business hotels with outstanding amenities. Families may prefer large flats or comfortable rentals near cultural sites and parks.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Those looking for more comfort can select <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/prague.org\/nl\/hotels-in-praag-met-prive-hot-tub\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">luxury hotels in nearby Prague<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, where convenient train connections make day visits simple. However, staying local allows you to fully immerse yourself in Pardubice&#8217;s unique atmosphere.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"family-friendly-tips-and-nearby-attractions\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Family-friendly tips and nearby attractions<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pardubice is a family-friendly city with activities other than the racecourse. Families can:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Explore Pardubice Castle<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Visit Pardubice Castle with exhibitions, history, and open places for youngsters to explore.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>The Gingerbread Museum:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> This is both entertaining and instructive, with activities centred around the city&#8217;s most famous treat.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Elbe River walks and bike rides<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Enjoy magnificent views, playgrounds, and picnic sites for family enjoyment.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Family-friendly hotels:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Many hotels include child-friendly amenities such as family rooms, play areas and speciality meals.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Safe and convenient transport:<\/b> <a href=\"https:\/\/prague.org\/nl\/openbaar-vervoer-in-praag\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Transportation in Prague<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is safe and convenient, making it easy to get around the city with children.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Extra time to explore<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: staying longer allows families to enjoy the city at their own pace.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"explore-horse-themed-and-cultural-experiences\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Explore horse-themed and cultural experiences<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A visit to <\/span><b>Velk\u00e1 Pardubick\u00e1 2025 <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">can be complemented with other fascinating experiences in Czechia:<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"horseback-riding-trips\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Horseback riding trips<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Enjoy a leisurely horseback ride near Prague, which is ideal for total beginners\u2014even if you have never ridden before. After a brief introduction with helmets and safety instructions, you&#8217;ll ride for about an hour at a walk-only pace through peaceful meadows and forests. On hot days, horses can cool themselves in a lake, with swimming available for an additional cost. The trip ends with time spent feeding and interacting with the horses. The total duration is approximately 1.5 hours.<\/span><\/p>\n<div data-gyg-href=\"https:\/\/widget.getyourguide.com\/default\/activities.frame\" data-gyg-locale-code=\"en-US\" data-gyg-widget=\"activities\" data-gyg-number-of-items=\"1\" data-gyg-partner-id=\"U94OQGQ\" data-gyg-tour-ids=\"593563\">Aangedreven door <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/prague-l10\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener sponsored nofollow\">GetYourGuide<\/a><\/div>\n<h3 id=\"historical-excursions-of-pardubice\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Historical excursions of Pardubice<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Take a one-day trip from Prague to Doln\u00ed Morava, home of the stunning Sky Bridge 721 and Sky Walk. Enjoy a lovely drive through the Czech countryside before taking a cable car to the mountain summit for lunch with panoramic views. Explore the Sky Walk&#8217;s high walkways before crossing the world&#8217;s largest pedestrian bridge for an amazing experience. Finish with a calm 3-kilometre nature trek before returning to Prague, full of unforgettable memories of nature and architecture.<\/span><\/p>\n<div data-gyg-href=\"https:\/\/widget.getyourguide.com\/default\/activities.frame\" data-gyg-locale-code=\"en-US\" data-gyg-widget=\"activities\" data-gyg-number-of-items=\"1\" data-gyg-partner-id=\"U94OQGQ\" data-gyg-tour-ids=\"937802\">Aangedreven door <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/dolni-morava-l176093\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener sponsored nofollow\">GetYourGuide<\/a><\/div>\n<h3 id=\"day-trips-from-prague\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Day Trips from Prague<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Experience medieval Bohemia on a one-day journey to D\u011btenice, located just outside Prague. Explore the 13th-century D\u011btenice Castle, rich in history and Baroque elegance, before exploring centuries-old brewing traditions at the village brewery, functioning since 1307 and offering a sampling of unpasteurised beers.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<div data-gyg-href=\"https:\/\/widget.getyourguide.com\/default\/activities.frame\" data-gyg-locale-code=\"en-US\" data-gyg-widget=\"activities\" data-gyg-number-of-items=\"1\" data-gyg-partner-id=\"U94OQGQ\" data-gyg-tour-ids=\"1021463\">Aangedreven door <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/prague-l10\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener sponsored nofollow\">GetYourGuide<\/a><\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">End the evening at the colourful Mediaeval Tavern, where a feast of hearty food, unlimited beer, and Moravian wine is served alongside fire performances, jesters, and live music. Comfortable transportation to and from your accommodation is provided.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Ready to witness one of the world\u2019s most thrilling and demanding races? Mark your calendar for Velk\u00e1 pardubick\u00e1 2025 and dive into a Czech sporting tradition like no other.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div data-gyg-href=\"https:\/\/widget.getyourguide.com\/default\/city.frame\" data-gyg-location-id=\"10\" data-gyg-locale-code=\"en-US\" data-gyg-widget=\"city\" data-gyg-partner-id=\"U94OQGQ\"><\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Velk\u00e1 Pardubick\u00e1 is een van de beroemdste en meest dramatische paardenraces in Tsjechi\u00eb, met duizenden...","protected":false},"author":21,"featured_media":14425,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[204,19,1],"tags":[66],"table_tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/prague.org\/nl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14424"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/prague.org\/nl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/prague.org\/nl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/prague.org\/nl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/21"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/prague.org\/nl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=14424"}],"version-history":[{"count":7,"href":"https:\/\/prague.org\/nl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14424\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":14453,"href":"https:\/\/prague.org\/nl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14424\/revisions\/14453"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/prague.org\/nl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/14425"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/prague.org\/nl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=14424"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/prague.org\/nl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=14424"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/prague.org\/nl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=14424"},{"taxonomy":"table_tags","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/prague.org\/nl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/table_tags?post=14424"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}