Golden Spike to Welcome Athletics Superstars Again This Year
The Golden Spike is set for a spectacular premiere. The participation of Olympic champion and world sprint star Noah Lyles is a major highlight that promises an unforgettable show. His career began to rise sharply in 2016 when he became the World U20 champion in the 100 metres. He is the current Olympic champion from Paris in the 100 metres, has won a total of eight world titles (100 m, 200 m, and 4×100 m relay), and holds two Olympic bronze medals in the 200 metres (2021, 2024). His personal bests of 9.79 seconds in the 100 metres and especially 19.31 seconds in the 200 metres rank among the best in history.
Recently, Lyles also drew global attention after announcing his marriage to Jamaican 400-metre runner Junelle Bromfield.
“It is a great honour for me to take part in this prestigious event. I have followed it for years, seen incredible performances and amazing athletes here. I hope to make history myself. I will run the 150 metres and aim for the world best. Don’t miss it – get your tickets. June 16, see you there,” said Lyles.
“Lyles is known as a great showman. Although he has already won many medals, he still has room to break records, and the track in Ostrava could become the site of the fastest 150-meter curved-track race in history. Last weekend, his main rival in the 100 metres, Jamaican Kishane Thompson, ran a record 14.92, and beating that mark will be the target at the Golden Spike. We have been trying to bring Noah to Ostrava for several years, and it has finally worked out. The 150 metres is an ideal distance for sprinters for whom 100 metres is too short and 200 metres too long. This discipline will be a unique highlight, exclusive to the Golden Spike,” said meeting manager Alfons Juck.
The event will also feature world-class athletes across disciplines. World champion over 800 metres, Josh Hoey, will attempt a world record in the 1000 metres, facing European silver medallist Mohamed Attaoui of Spain. Javelin stars Anderson Peters and Adriana Vilagoš will compete, while shot put will include top athletes such as Tom Walsh and Jordan Geist.
Czech athletics will once again have strong representation. Quarter-miler Lurdes Gloria Manuel, recently crowned World Indoor Champion in Toruń, will compete, along with pole vaulter Amálie Švábíková, shot putter Tomáš Staněk, and javelin thrower Nikola Ogrodníková, returning after maternity leave.
Always Something Extra
The programme will also include the popular Chocolate Spike event. During the international semi-final, held one day before the main meeting, young athletes will have a unique opportunity to meet top stars – including Noah Lyles. Those who qualify will experience an exceptional atmosphere, and the best will compete in the final on the main event day in front of packed stands.
As part of the 65th anniversary, organizers are preparing to introduce a Hall of Fame, with more details to be announced at the next press conference.
For the first time, a joint Czech-Slovak championship in the 10,000 metres for men and women will also take place. These races are scheduled for the evening of Monday, June 15, with international participation.
The 65th anniversary edition of the Golden Spike Ostrava promises an extraordinary sporting spectacle, bringing together global stars, top domestic athletes, and the next generation of rising talent. Last year’s event was completely sold out, so organizers strongly recommend securing tickets in advance.
Be there when Ostrava once again becomes the centre of world athletics. Tickets are now on sale.