At first glance, Rochlov Château is pure romance. A grand Baroque edifice set in the West Bohemian countryside, it boasts centuries of history, layers of architectural evolution, and a storied past as a vital waypoint on the trade route between Nuremberg and Prague. However, decades of state ownership left the château in a state of ruin. Declared a threat to public safety, the building was scheduled for demolition, yet its timely salvation arrived when the company Pegisan stepped in. The structure had long been plagued by systemic damp, compromised structural elements, as well as historical interventions that had dangerously shifted the load-bearing dynamics of the walls and foundations. The older core of the building reacted differently than later additions; this was no mere backdrop, but a collapsing organism out of equilibrium. However, Ing. Josef Ždych is no stranger to monumental restoration. Having breathed new life into landmarks such as the French and German embassies in Prague, the Kriváň spa house in Mariánské Lázně and the Kladruby monastery, he decided to champion the rescue of Rochlov Château as a personal mission. 

MOISTURE AS AN EQUILIBRIUM-FORMING FACTOR

One of the greatest fallacies in historic restoration is the drive to make a building ‘bone dry’. A heritage site is not a modern new-build; a certain degree of moisture is inherent to its physical nature. Radical desiccation can cause foundations to shift and lead to irreversible deformations. Consequently, the restoration of Rochlov was not about drastic interference, but sensitive control. It focused on restoring airflow, stabilising the moisture regime and gradually unifying disparate structural sections. It was not a process defined by speed, but by patience.

STABILITY AS A QUIET LUXURY

A critical intervention involved the structural reinforcement of the building along its longitudinal axis. This required the installation of new tension rods, as well as the reinstatement of load-bearing elements within the roof and floor structures. Invisible work, yet essential for any pre-war building. The varying foundation conditions between the older and newer wings had to be unified so the building could function as a single entity, rather than a collection of historical compromises. Here, luxury is not found in marble or gilding; luxury is stability and sustainability.

THE HARDEST DECISION: ACKNOWLEDGING THE PRESENT

Paradoxically, the greatest dilemma was not structural. Instead, it involved the question of whether to integrate a new turret and skylights into the historic roof line. Where does respect for history end and interference begin? Does the present day have the right to leave its mark on a centuries-old monument? Ultimately, a different philosophy prevailed: every era should be legible within the fabric of the building. The château has evolved over centuries. The new turret is not a disruption of history, but a continuation of it. It is not an exercise in copying the past, but a dialogue with it. Furthermore, the tower incorporates traditional timber elements characteristic of West Bohemian architecture. 

HUMILITY AS THE ESSENTIAL TOOL

The restoration of a landmark does not begin with technology but with study. It requires an understanding of the periods the building has weathered, the materials used and the past interventions that altered it. Most importantly, it demands a grasp of the local soil and climatic conditions. Only then can modern construction management, new materials and contemporary techniques be introduced to revitalise the château and its grounds. 

ROCHLOV AS PROOF, NOT JUST A SYMBOL

The Rochlov estate demonstrates that even though the history of West Bohemia and its manors has been turbulent, there can be a happy ending. What was once a written-off cultural monument is becoming a retreat for tourists, a haven for small entrepreneurs and a venue for weddings, exhibitions and corporate events. 

Is it possible to save a historic site and make it functional for the modern age without aggressive interference? Rochlov Château provides the answer without saying a word.

Článek When History is Understood, Not Just Fixed: Rochlov – A Story of Humility and Courage se nejdříve objevil na Prestigemedia.cz.

🖊 Dostihový spolek  |   Petr Šedivý

Since the mid-19th century, Pardubice has become synonymous with courage, elegance and exceptional athletic performance. Founded in 1856, the racecourse has gradually evolved into one of the most respected venues for continental steeplechase racing. Today, its name resonates far beyond the borders of the Czech Republic, primarily thanks to the legendary Grand Pardubice Steeplechase (Velká pardubická), which ranks among the most challenging and prestigious races in the world.

PARDUBICE – A PLACE WHERE HISTORY IS WRITTEN

The 170-year existence of the Pardubice Racecourse is proof that true traditions are capable of transcending generations. Whether you arrive as an equestrian enthusiast, a guest in the VIP stand or an entrepreneur seeking an inspiring setting for meetings with partners, one thing is certain: the atmosphere of this place will leave a lasting impression. When the field of horses sets off at the start of the Grand Pardubice Steeplechase and the grandstands fall silent in anticipation, it is more than just sport that is at stake. It is a moment where history, courage and elegance meet on a single track. And that is precisely why the Pardubice Racecourse has remained a symbol of tradition, prestige and distinction for 170 years.

A TRADITION THAT LIVES ON

The celebrations of the racecourse’s 170th anniversary serve as a reminder that tradition is not static – it is alive and constantly evolving. Today, the racecourse not only offers premier sporting experiences but also a unique space for corporate events, exclusive social gatherings and gastronomic experiences. The historic grandstands, the expansive parkland and the atmosphere of race day create a backdrop that is unparalleled in the region.

THE RACE THAT BECAME A LEGEND

The Grand Pardubice Steeplechase is not merely a sporting event. It is a ritual, tradition and social highlight of the autumn. Since 1874, a dramatic contest between horses and jockeys has taken place each year on a nearly seven-kilometre-long track, testing courage, endurance and the perfect harmony between horse and rider. The most famous obstacle, the legendary Taxis Ditch, has become a symbol of the respect the race commands. To clear it is to enter the history books. It is this very combination of difficulty and tradition that makes the Grand Pardubice Steeplechase a race that has fascinated generations of spectators, one that continues to attract the attention of the media and sports enthusiasts from all over the world.

SOCIAL EVENT OF THE SEASON

Leaders from the worlds of business, politics and culture meet at the Grand Pardubice Steeplechase each year. The grandstands and VIP zones of the racecourse create an atmosphere reminiscent of famous European race meetings such as Ascot or Longchamp. 

GRAND PARDUBICE STEEPLECHASE 2026

This year, the 136th edition of the legendary race will take place, with Slavia pojišťovna as its title partner. Last year’s edition provided a moment that served as a fresh reminder of the international importance of this legendary race. After three long decades, a horse from a foreign stable – an Irish representative – was victorious in the Grand Pardubice Steeplechase, breaking the long-standing dominance of domestic stables. The very success sparked a significant response across the European racing scene and indicated that Pardubice is once again becoming a magnet for top international teams. It is therefore expected that even stronger international competition will appear at the starting line in the coming years, putting the quality of the Czech favourites to the test. The final outcome will be decided on the second Sunday in October, the traditional date for the Grand Pardubice Steeplechase. 

Článek Pardubice Racecourse: 170 Years of Tradition,Courage and Social Prestige se nejdříve objevil na Prestigemedia.cz.

The Velká Chuchle Racecourse was established and commenced operations in 1906. It was conceived and constructed by the Czech Racing Club (Český závodní spolek), whose honorary members included, among others, Archduke Karl Franz Joseph, Imperial and Royal Governor Count Karl Coudenhove, and Dr Karel Groš, Mayor of the Royal Capital City of Prague. The club’s leadership was acutely aware that the development of horse racing in the Czech lands required a central track in or near Prague; their choice ultimately fell upon the expanse between the Vltava River and the municipality of Velká Chuchle. The original opening date, set for 23 September, saw newspapers provide detailed coverage of every development related to the forthcoming spectacle in the weeks leading up to the planned start. However, heavy rains prevented the inaugural Chuchle races from taking place on the original date and, as such, the gala première fell on 28 September 1906.

On the day itself, a sharp autumn wind dried the track and, after midday, the sun finally graced the new arena. The Imperial and Royal Railways dispatched a special train carrying 1,650 passengers from Franz Josef Station (now the Main Station), while another special service from Smíchov Station brought a further 1,150 people. Steamers delivered 4,000 spectators, and the parking area saw a dozen motor cars standing alongside hansom cabs and fiacres. A post office was established on the grandstand, and the wine bar was leased by the then-renowned Prague and Viennese delicatessen owner, Mr Lippert. 

Five years later, the racecourse was immortalised by another event: on 13 May 1911, it became a sensation when the aviator Jan Kašpar completed his historic flight from Pardubice to Prague, choosing the Chuchle turf as his landing site. 

Horse racing in Prague fell silent during the years of the First World War, yet with the birth of the new Republic the horses returned. Since 1920, racing at Velká Chuchle has continued without interruption, becoming an inextricable part of the capital’s social fabric. Throughout more than a century of existence the racecourse has weathered numerous crises, from the stable fires in the closing days of the Second World War to several floods – including the devastating inundation of 2002, the aftermath of which took over six months to clear.

Today, Chuchle Arena Prague remains the premier Czech racing venue, while simultaneously serving as a modern, multi-functional complex. The sporting season, featuring over twenty race days and show jumping weekends, typically runs from early April to the end of October. 

The Chuchle turf has played host to more than 18,000 races in its storied history.

Článek Chuchle Racecourse Celebrates 120 Years se nejdříve objevil na Prestigemedia.cz.

🖊 Ivana Bednářová  |   archiv Michal Farník

What role does the Association of Castle and Château Owners play in today’s preservation and development of
historic seats in the Czech Republic? How many properties does it involve, and who are the people behind them?

Today, the Association primarily functions as a platform that bridges the gap between owners of historic properties, facilitating the exchange of expertise while acting as a unified voice in negotiations with state authorities. It is not merely about conservation for its own sake, but about striking a delicate balance between preservation and viable, sustainable operation. We represent dozens of properties and their owners, a number that continues to grow. While the vast majority of owners are from the Czech Republic, we are seeing an increasing presence of international investors. 

The public often envisions life in a château as a romantic dream. What is it like in real life, and what proves to be the greatest challenge during restoration?

The reality is considerably less idyllic. A historic seat is a living organism that demands relentless care, investment and time. Beyond the physical reconstruction itself, one must tackle day-to-day operations and administration, navigate bureaucracy, as well as constantly source and secure funding. The greatest challenge lies in the sheer convergence of these factors: prohibitive costs, complex legislation and the long-term nature of the entire endeavour. One simply cannot embark on such a project without immense patience and a robust vision. 

What models of utilisation prevail today, and is there a growing appetite for historic spaces?

Most owners now opt for a hybrid model. These historic properties serve as venues for accommodation, cultural events, weddings or corporate retreats. Use solely for private purposes is very much the exception, as it is economically difficult to sustain. Yet, the appetite for historic spaces is surging, particularly from companies and institutions seeking an authentic environment with a sense of atmosphere and heritage. 

You are the owner of Neustupov Château yourself. What drew you to this project, and what was your motivation for seeing it through?

Neustupov Château spoke to me through its history and its untapped potential. From the outset, it was clear that this was a project that defied conventional economic logic. Nevertheless, I sensed a deeper value. My motivation was a desire to restore dignity to this site and open its doors to the public once more. The renovation was arduous, but that only makes it more rewarding to see the château vibrant with life again today, where people are gathering and writing new stories.

How do you envision the future for private castles and châteaux, and what changes could the state implement?

I see a future defined by openness, collaboration and sustainability. Historic properties cannot function in a vacuum. They require meaningful links to society, the local region and the economy. Partnerships with the state are also of paramount importance. The government could provide significant assistance by fostering a more stable and predictable environment, streamlining legislation and offering greater support for restoration efforts. 

Do you believe the younger generation will have the stomach to take on the responsibility for these seats? And why, in your view, does it make sense to save these monuments at all?

The younger generation certainly has the interest, but they require the right conditions to thrive. Managing a historic property is a monumental undertaking, and without a degree of support the risk is simply too great for many. That said, I am confident that a new generation can bring fresh perspectives and renewed energy.

Článek When History Remains Alive se nejdříve objevil na Prestigemedia.cz.

For over twenty years, the Energy Club at Mánesova Street in Prague’s Vinohrady district has been a place where people have sought health, inspiration and balance. In the pleasant atmosphere, the venture takes care of both body and soul. We talked to the club’s owner Soňa Štrupová about how the club works and its approach to clients.

Hello, Soňa, can you tell us something about yourself and your club?

My name is Soňa Štrupová and I have been running the Energy Club for over twenty years. At first we worked in other places, but it was only at Mánesova that we found a space that really suited our clients. Our philosophy is that health is not only about the body, but also about mental well-being. That’s why we not only sell energy supplements, but also offer advice, diagnostics and services to help clients feel better.

What do you think is the main advantage of your club?

A unique combination of expertise and individual approach. Every person is different, and our recommendations are therefore
always tailored to the needs of each individual. We use a diagnostic tool to help us find out what the body really needs and show clients how to work with it in their daily lives.

You often stress the connection between body and mind. How do you think the imbalance manifests itself?

It usually starts in subtle ways – people feel tired, they don’t sleep well, get headaches, get irritable or lose
interest in things that used to give them joy. Ignoring psychological discomfort in the long run affects our physical health. The body and mind are connected
vessels – one cannot function without the other.

In your experience, how much influence does mental well-being have on physical health?

Its influence is absolutely essential. A level-headed person recovers better, has more energy and their immune system works properly. And vice versa, prolonged stress or internal tension can weaken the body, impair sleep, cause digestive problems or back pain. That’s why I always stress that mental health care is not luxury, but an essential part of a healthy life.

How do you go about diagnosing clients?

We use the EAV method, which is based on acupuncture points measurements. The instrument we use can show where imbalances or inflammation occur in the body, and we then work with the clients to find ways to help them. We have the mandatory certification and the instrument is used by professionally trained team members. We also describe the whole process in detail on our website so that people know the method in advance.

Do you have specific types of clients whose life has been fundamentally changed by your care?

There have been a number of such stories over the years. Very often we help mothers with children who suffer from weak immunity and are constantly sick. Women who are preparing for pregnancy and wish to harmonise their bodies also commonly reach out to us. And then there are the exhausted managers seeking stress relief, or athletes in need of recovery. Each story is different, but they all have one thing in common – the desire to feel better and live in balance.

Can you share some simple tips on how to take care of one’s mental well-being with our readers?

Sure. I like to mention three steps everyone can do. The first step consists in working with the mind – consciously focusing on positive thoughts and refraining from programming oneself using negative scenarios. The second step is day balance. There are 24 hours in a day and it is good to divide them into sleep, work and rest. When we respect this, we work more happily and rest without regret. The third step is self-respect. It is not selfish to put yourself first – quite the opposite. When we are strong and balanced, we can benefit
others.

What services can your clients use in the club?

Our offer is wide. In addition to diagnostics and counselling, we offer massages, cosmetic services, relaxation rituals and interesting lectures. We try to make sure that everyone not only takes away practical advice, but also a sense of calm, inspiration and relaxation.

Článek A place where body and mind are tuned to the wave of harmony se nejdříve objevil na Prestigemedia.cz.

The Zbraslav-Jíloviště hill-climb car and motorcycle race is one of the oldest ever. The speed race’s first edition was held in 1908, and the last one before the war took place in 1931. In 1968, this famous tradition was renewed by the Veteran Car Club Prague, who organised the commemorative Zbraslav-Jíloviště ride already for the fifty-eighth time this year.

The ride is today always held on the first weekend of the new school year, but not as a speed race… It is
instead a test of consistency, where participants strive to complete the course in the exact same time across two distinct runs. This year the event marked the 95th
anniversary of Rudolf Caracciola’s famous victory with
a record-breaking average speed of 123.8 km/h – a record that still stands to this day. Back then he beat another
star of motor sports, Hans Stück, by 11 seconds. This year’s edition also commemorated Jiří Kristián Lobkowicz, once a promising up-and-comer, whose career was cut short by a tragic accident at the Avus circuit in 1932.

On Saturday, 6 September 2025, it all started on the square in Zbraslav. An 8 a.m. opening reception welcomed about one-hundred pre-war cars and motorcycles. The oldest car in this year’s event was the American Autocar M8 from 1902. The practice runs began at 11 a.m., and at
1 p.m. the timed uphill session to Jíloviště began, poetically named the Eliška Junková Challenge Cup Race of
Elegance and Courage. The motorcycles were first to start, the oldest of which, a 1906 Trojan & Nágl Torpedo, also took part in the original race in 1908. There were also Indian and Harley-Davidson motorcycles; Czech motorcycles were represented by Praga BDs.

After the motorcycles the cars, split into various cate-
gories by power, then began their runs. Ford, Tatra and Aero were all abundantly represented, but Bugattis were, of course, also present. Two Bugatti 13 machines, which also took part in the original races in 1922 and 1925, were brought by  Jakub Stauch, president of the Czech Bugatti Club. One of the cars was driven by his daughter Alžběta, who reminded us of the Czech racer Eliška Junková, whose name adorns the cup the racers were competing
for. Vojtěch Masojídek brought a Bugatti 37A, which,
driven by Miloš Bondy, emerged victorious in this category in the 1929 edition of the event. However, BMWs and Jaguars were also among the racing cars. 

The Saturday victory ceremony has been held in the town of Jíloviště for several years now. This year, the winning trophy was lifted by Václav Osvald, who drove
a 1931 Dodge Six. On Sunday, 7 September 2025, the Journey through Time in Search of Jiří Kristián Lobkowicz orienteering event through the Central Bohemian region also started in Jíloviště, with its first stop in the Mělník Castle premises. The Lobkowicz mansion displayed artefacts related to the racer Jiří Kristián Lobkowicz, who finished fourth in the 1931 Grand Prix at the Masaryk Circuit – still the best finish ever recorded by a Czech pilot in the most prestigious car race in the world. Unlike on Saturday, Sunday’s event also includes historic vehicles of post-war production, i.e., vehicles manufactured up to 1995. Spectators had the opportunity to watch Škodas from the 1960s to the 1980s, but also a Ford Mustang, a Chevrolet Corvette and a Lamborghini Espada in action. The final destination was Lobeč Castle, where the merger between Škoda and Laurin&Klement was signed in 1925. Sunday’s orientation event was won by Mr Kotlařík in his Tatra 75.

Článek A glimpse under the bonnet – Zbraslav-Jíloviště se nejdříve objevil na Prestigemedia.cz.

The Hucul – a small, hardy and remarkably loyal horse from the Carpathian Mountains. For centuries it served people in the toughest terrain, and today it wins the hearts of riders across Europe.

HUCULS – Horses with the soul of mountains

Modesty, courage, dignity, loyalty, hard work and friendship – all of these fit into the body of a small but incredibly strong horse from the Carpathian mountains. Huculs are not just ‘horses’. They are personalities. They can look you in the eye in a way that will make you think they know what you are feeling and thinking. And if you give them time and your trust, they will open their hearts to you and become a part of your life. A silent friendship will be formed – for life.

Born in the mountains, raised by stories

Huculs were born where the winters are long, the summers short and the roads steep and rocky. For centuries, they carried the inhabitants of Carpathian villages to places where other horses wouldn’t dare to venture. They carried heavy loads without difficulty, crossing rushing torrents and confidently climbing up narrow mountain trails.

You will no longer see them carrying heavy sacks of flour and goods on their backs. They are more likely to be seen in pastures, standing still in the wind. But they still exude the same strength, poise and determination. And when they look at you, you know the horses carry centuries of stories with them. Mostly tough ones.

Every foal is a little miracle

After the Second World War, it seemed that Huculs would disappear forever. Inappropriate cross-breeding and the decline of the original herds almost spelled the end. But in the 1970s, a few enthusiasts decided not to let that happen. They toured the stables and pastures of Central Europe, picked the last purebreds they could find and put a mosaic of individuals fit for breeding back together. It is thanks to them that Huculs are not a thing of the past now.

Today, they are registered as a protected genetic resource in the Czech Republic – and every new foal is a small miracle. Living proof that real values never cease to be relevant. Even with the passage of time.

A HORSE THAT KNOWS THE WAY WHERE THERE IS NONE

Huculs always find a way. They will take you where the real adventure begins. A path barely wider than their backs, a rocky cliff, a dense forest or a stream that has only been there since yesterday. They sense danger before you do. They don’t panic. They just look around and choose a different path. Poised and calm. But they need to know you trust them. They are used to living in herds where the rules are clear and relationships strong. And they expect the same from people – clarity, justice and calm power. When they get it from you, they will be loyal to you until their last breath.

A partner for everyone

Huculs are ideal for relaxed rides, hippotherapy, light work and for people who are only learning to ride. At 140 cm at the withers, they may not be intimidating, but they are sturdy and can easily carry a grown man. They are modest in their demands, they don’t need a luxurious stable or expensive feed – all they need is a grazing pasture and some minerals.

A legacy of the mountains that lives on

Huculs are one of the four original Czech horse breeds and an endangered species recognised throughout Europe. There are just over three-hundred breeding mares in Czechia now – and each of them has a story to tell. The memory of a time when horses were assessed on their hearts, not show standards.

This story lives on, on a farm in the Giant Mountains, but also with the Waisser family, to name one example. This is where Huculs find their home. Not just pastures and care, but human hearts that understand. And maybe that’s why they say that once a Hucul enters your life… You’ll never want to let go of them.

Facts about the Hucul horse

•
Origin: Carpathian Mountains (Czech Republic, Slovakia, Ukraine, Poland, Romania).

•
History: First written records date back to the 17th century. The Czech studbook has existed since 1982. Today, the breed is classified as endangered and protected by FAO.

•
Temperament: Calm, resilient, enduring, and a loyal companion.

•
Height: Approximately 134–144 cm at the withers.

•
Use: Recreational riding and trekking, hobby sports, hippotherapy, light carriage and draft work.

•
Breeders: Represented by the Hucul Horse
Breeders’ Association (ACHHK) in the Czech Republic, and internationally by HIF.

•
Care: Minimal demands on feeding and housing, extremely healthy and long-lived breed.

Článek The Hucul – a horse with the soul of the mountains se nejdříve objevil na Prestigemedia.cz.

This annual sporting and social event is held  at Prague’s Chuchle Arena in the last ten days of June. It is the absolute highlight of the racing season, and victory indelibly inscribes the winning horse’s name in history, giving it the best credentials for later breeding programme success.

For its rider, trainer, owner, breeder and caretaker, winning the trophy means attaining the ultimate goal in the racing world. The prize money (the total sum of all prizes in the race) is two million crowns, making the Czech Derby the most generously supported classic race in Central Europe and one of the best paid regional races in general. It is the most prestigious test that a racehorse can solely take part in once in its life as a three-year-old.

The history of the Czech Derby dates back to 1920, and neither wars, natural disasters nor pandemics have prevented this exceptional race from taking place each season. This is why, on 22 June this year, the Czech Derby wrote is 105th chapter. Fourteen horses, comprising seven stallions and seven fillies, lined up in front of a packed grandstand at the country’s main racecourse, ready to put on a breathtaking spectacle over the 2,400-metre course. In the home straight, Miss of Change, a French-born filly representing the stable of Eva Nieslaniková and trained by her father Miroslav, proved to have the most endurance. Jockey Callum Shepherd, who arrived in Prague from Great Britain to take part in the Derby, was instrumental in the filly’s triumph.

The conclusion of the most prestigious race of the season offered a dramatic finish, in which, after a thrilling duel, the filly Miss of Change narrowly prevailed and achieved the greatest success of her career.

British jockey Callum Shepherd excelled in the saddle of Miss of Change and, of course, returned home extremely satisfied after making his first appearance in the Czech Republic.

Článek Miss of Change victorious in Czech Derby se nejdříve objevil na Prestigemedia.cz.

Interest in Rotary membership in Prague began to grow in 1924, thanks to the initiative of Antonín Suma, a prominent diplomat and organizer of public life (he also founded the Prague YMCA), along with Charles Summer Winans, the U.S. envoy to Prague, and most notably, Jan Masaryk, diplomat, foreign minister, and son of President T. G. Masaryk. In fact, some of the early meetings were held in the Masaryk residence at Prague Castle. Among the participants were well-known figures such as entrepreneurs Jindřich Waldes, Miloš and Václav Havel, Josef Schulz, Jaroslav Podhajský, artist František Anýž, writer Václav Tille, and other distinguished gentlemen of the time. RC Prague was officially inaugurated on September 14, 1925, and laid the foundation for the establishment of Rotary clubs in nine other Czech cities.

The meeting places of the Prague Rotary Club changed over the years, though its activities are most often associated with the city’s Municipal House. The club’s vibrant social life revolved around engaging professional lectures, interclub visits, and both summer and winter excursions. Members were also active golfers and tennis players, especially in spa towns. Rotary members provided pro bono translations of informational materials about their cities into English or French and arranged for their sponsored printing. They also served, for example, as guides for foreign visitors during the 8th All-Sokol Rally. 

The clubs supported the construction of public-benefit facilities—such as schools, hospitals, theaters, youth centers, sculptures, and local infrastructure projects. In the western part of the district, they often supported scout groups, while in Slovakia, they focused on founding and backing the Czechoslovak Red Cross. Clubs also sponsored students for summer stays abroad. Supporting school meals for children from impoverished families was a common practice as well. Charitable activities typically culminated during the Christmas season.

After the Munich Agreement, Rotary clubs in the Sudetenland were the first to be dissolved. In the Protectorate of Bohemia and Moravia, a deadline was set for the liquidation of Rotary clubs and similar associations by Saturday, August 26, 1939. According to a 1946 survey, more than two hundred former Czechoslovak Rotarians—around one-sixth of the membership—were imprisoned or otherwise persecuted between 1939 and 1945 for various reasons.

Immediately after the liberation of Czechoslovakia, First Republic Rotary clubs began restoring their activities. Noteworthy was the news that, with the direct involvement and support of two local Rotary members, a new state secondary boarding school was established in Poděbrady, modeled after foreign institutions. The school prioritized admission for students from families affected by the Nazi occupation. Perhaps the most famous of these students were Václav Havel and Miloš Forman. The Poděbrady grammar school continues to serve students to this day.

There was also an atmosphere of optimism in 1947 during a joint meeting of all the clubs that had been reestablished or newly founded, held in Plzeň. The event was attended by Jan Masaryk and the president of ROTARY INTERNATIONAL, Richard C. Hedke. Also present was a delegation representing around thirty clubs from Northern and Western England, whose members had been preparing the groundwork for renewed connections and joint projects for over a year. They left Plzeň with an invitation to visit Czechoslovakia.  

There was active correspondence between clubs. A national conference was planned for May 1948 in Karlovy Vary, and volunteers were also being recruited to support the organizers of the 11th All-Sokol Gathering scheduled for the summer in Prague. However, after the events of February 25, a new government directive required all associations and interest groups to re-register and integrate into the unified system of the National Front, a state-controlled organization. The Rotarians had no interest in operating their clubs under such a framework. As a result, club secretaries began announcing the dissolution of their clubs, citing lack of interest or insufficient membership.

Support from Rotarians abroad for those who left Czechoslovakia after 1948 was entirely individual. Some families managed to establish stable conditions and quickly build new lives in Western Europe, England, or the USA. The events of 1968 in Czechoslovakia did not lead to the revival of Rotary clubs. It wasn’t until the mid-1980s that significant societal change in the Soviet Union and its satellite states began to seem possible.

As early as 1987, the Rotary International headquarters decided to support humanitarian and educational projects in the countries of the Soviet bloc. The Rotary Foundation was tasked with implementing these efforts, and teams made up of experienced Rotarians from existing districts were formed into so-called “Special Extension Areas” (SEA). Responsibility for supporting public-benefit activities in what was then Czechoslovakia was assigned to Rotary clubs in the western part of Austria. With their help, RC Prague was the first club to be reestablished in 1990.

Svatopluk K. Jedlička 

Photo: archive of Svatopluka K. Jedličky

Rotary clubs form an international network established in 1905 in Chicago, Illinois (USA), bringing together 1.2 million members from all continents. In the international environment, they focus on the development of civil society in their local communities, support for young talented individuals, fundraising for humanitarian projects, and various interest-based activities. The largest international initiative has been the global eradication of polio. Currently, Rotary clubs operate in a total of 73 cities across the Czech Republic and Slovakia.                                  

Článek JUBILEE YEAR FOR THE ROTARY se nejdříve objevil na Prestigemedia.cz.

Can you briefly introduce the Tomáš Baťa Foundation and its main mission?

The Tomáš Baťa Foundation, established in the 1990s by Tomáš Baťa Jr., proudly preserves and promotes the timeless legacy of the Baťa philosophy across society. We create an environment where the cultural and entrepreneurial worlds come together. We build on the philosophy of Tomáš Baťa, who viewed human society as a complex whole with many facets. We support culture, education, community life, interest groups, and the activities of young people with a desire to create. All of this happens through discussions, themed lectures, workshops, seminars, exhibitions, and regular publishing activities.

What values and ideas of Tomáš Baťa do you consider the most relevant for today?

I take a complex view. Over the years, Tomáš Baťa developed a well-thought-out philosophy aimed at restoring people’s pride, relationship to work, and courage to transform themselves. This philosophy is timeless, fascinating, and mostly very simple, as it’s based on common sense. It’s important to understand that Baťa’s entrepreneurial success wasn’t a result of luck or coincidence, but of continuous effort. He learned to understand people—their opportunities, fears, and desires. He never judged a person by their wealth, but by their courage and determination to work. He followed the core belief that courage is half of success. He understood that you must first build yourself and become someone worth following—whether you want to inspire your colleagues, friends, or society.

What personally led you to the foundation, and what is your role as a project and PR manager?

I was lucky. During my work in publishing, I once did an interview with Gabriela Končitíková, the current director of the foundation, who mentioned that they were expanding their team. That immediately caught my attention. Tired of the daily news routine at a commercial TV station, I felt I wanted something different from my professional life—something more. Being part of the “Baťa” team sounded appealing. It was a challenge. I wanted to contribute—at least a little—to my hometown and region and be part of something meaningful, with a deeper purpose and plenty of room for creative expression. I’m responsible for preparing all the flagship projects of the foundation, as well as newer initiatives that started after I joined—like our regular cultural and social event called “Evening Tea,” which quickly became a favorite among people in Zlín. I also handle media relations, partnerships, and take care of our social media.

Your foundation collaborates with the Z101 Expedition. Can you tell us how this collaboration began and what it specifically involves?

As is often the case, major projects are born from small, seemingly ordinary moments—and that was also true with the Z101 Expedition. When Tomáš Vaňourek sent us a photograph of a Baťa factory in Africa, it immediately caught our attention, and we started thinking about how to explore its potential further. Fortunately, we have strong relationships both with the Baťa family and the global leadership of the company, so we managed to arrange filming directly within the local Baťa complex.And it didn’t stop there. From Limuru, Kenya, the Z101 Expedition continued on to Lusaka in Zambia and Gweru in Zimbabwe, producing fantastic and, above all, authentic reports that show how Baťa’s philosophy continues to be lived in Africa. It’s a fascinating testimony. We’re currently working on a documentary film that will place the entire story into a historical context—showing viewers just how timeless Baťa truly was. It will also help audiences in Africa and India understand that Baťa is genuinely ours—that he came from Zlín and Czechoslovakia, not from their own countries, as many mistakenly believe.

The Z101 Expedition follows in the footsteps of legendary Czech travelers Hanzelka and Zikmund. In what way do you think this project resonates with the philosophy of Tomáš Baťa?

In the work of the Z101 Expedition, we see the courage to create, to explore, to grow, to overcome daily challenges, to seek new paths, to bring value to society, and—last but not least—to educate others. These are all principles championed by Tomáš Baťa, and they were just as close to the hearts of Jiří Hanzelka and Miroslav Zikmund.

What challenges did you face during your collaboration with the Z101 Expedition, and what has this cooperation brought you?

At the moment, I can’t recall any major challenges—this question would probably be better answered by Tomáš Vaňourek and Linda Piknerová, who were out in the field. We were supporting the operation from Zlín, helping the two adventurers with necessary formalities, providing essential contacts, and supplying historical materials to help them better understand the context of the project. Anyway, this collaboration once again confirmed for us what a visionary Tomáš Baťa truly was. In the countries where he built factories, he didn’t exploit—he enriched. His approach to international work was always grounded in the idea that business must be mutually beneficial. He understood that countries where Baťa wanted to operate also needed to be developed. That’s why, as I’ve mentioned before, in places like Africa and India, people consider Baťa as one of their own—because that factory truly is “theirs.”

Do you see future opportunities for the Tomáš Baťa Foundation to collaborate with similar projects?

Collaboration is key. We are always happy to support various initiatives—not just those related to travel—and we’re eager to engage in all kinds of partnerships, as long as they make deeper sense to us. That also means we are very selective when it comes to choosing our partners—or collaborators, if we speak in Baťa terms. We not only uphold all the Baťa values, but we also carefully ensure that the Baťa name is treated with respect and integrity. 

What would you like to say to our readers regarding the legacy of Tomáš Baťa, the Z101 Expedition, or the general support of similar projects?

Follow your dreams, no matter how small they may seem. It might sound like a cliché, but from my own experience, I can confirm that it truly works. There’s a lot of truth in Tomáš Baťa’s famous quotes, such as “The world belongs to the bold” and “Enthusiasm gives wings,” and it doesn’t matter what each of us is pursuing. The most important thing is to do things honestly, joyfully, humbly, and patiently. Sooner or later, the results will come.

Author: Šárka Kmínková

Článek THE TOMÁŠ BAŤA FOUNDATION AND ITS MAIN MISSION se nejdříve objevil na Prestigemedia.cz.