The Faculty of Physical Education and Sport’s charity event, Hřeje mě pohyb (Sport Unites), made its return this Thursday with a mission: to cover 2,000 kilometres in just four hours by running, jogging, walking, or cycling. The event, which raises both awareness and funds for a good cause, took place at the faculty’s athletics stadium and featured appearances by Charles University Olympians, fresh off their recent competitions in Paris: these were Zosia Burská, Amálie Švábíková, Anna Šantrůčková, Michaela Hrubá and Eduard Kubelík.
This year’s theme, Běžíme pro společný sen (Running Towards a Common Dream), supported the Cesta za snem (Journey To a Dream) project. Students, staff, and members of the public joined forces to run or walk in solidarity with those overcoming physical barriers. The initiative promotes inclusion, showing that sport truly is for everyone - whether you’re in a wheelchair or facing whatever manner of challenges, or are without a disability. Everyone gains from sports and it's a thrill to take part.
The atmosphere at Veleslavín athletics stadium was upbeat despite mostly overcast skies. The event was livened by quick-on-their-feet student (as well as professional) emcees and an energetic DJ playing pop and hip hop. By now, organisers are also experienced: the event was held for the sixth time.
Alongside the main event, participants could try out various activities, including a skills competition for You.fo - an exciting new sport you've probably never heard of, but won’t forget once you’ve tried it.
You.fo players pose for Forum. Giel Bos is second from left.
You.fo looks familiar and it should, explained Dutch promoter Giel Bos, who was on hand to demonstrate both basic and advanced techniques. “The name refers to a ‘UFO’ - because you throw a double-decker ring shaped like a flying saucer - and it’s a hybrid between lacrosse and ultimate frisbee,” he told Forum magazine. Invented by Bas Ruyssenaars, You.fo is now played in 35 countries, with its next World Cup taking place in Japan, Bos said. He noted that many Czechs, with their hockey background, took naturally to the sport.
There is even a fascinating academic link, Giel Bos pointed out: "Even now it is not entirely clear how the double-decker ring has such a stable flight once in the air, and it's the subject of study by three PhD students!"
Forum also picked up a throwing stick and tried it and can say at first glance it's not easy to flick the ring to a fellow player; but many of the students got a hang of it faster than us.
We tried it and it was a little harder than it looks. But skilled students at the faculty soon picked it up.
The activities on Thursday didn’t stop there. Visitors could also try handcycles - both upright and stationary - and learn about initiatives like Supporter: Advancing Gender Equality in Sports Education and Nevypustduši.cz, a mental health awareness group marking National Mental Health Day. You could also grab a coffee, and if you were running, a free bottle of water.
Hřeje mě pohyb is open to all - a perfect excuse to get outside, under blue or grey skies, whether with friends, family, or on your own. Students, employees, members of the public - all are welcome. You don’t even have to run; walking is just as encouraged. The joy is in taking part and seeing how many others share the same passion. Be sure to take part the next time - don't miss out!
