Dekáč - Summer Edition

FEJETHLON BY JAKUB ŠINDELÁŘ: Proving My Creativity (Part 2)

If there's one thing I don't excel at, it's writing short, concise texts. But I'll try. I'll start with some statistics. I am 34 years old, have one wife, four children (2 human, 2 canine), and one turtle. I joined Decathlon in 2019 (a remote thank you to Kuba Dostál for the opportunity) in the hiking department, where I still am. I started at the Jihlava store and after four years transferred to Pardubice. In my free time, I enjoy spending time in nature, on my bike, or standing with a bow in my hand. I am also a fan of racket sports, football, and almost all precision sports. I like filtered coffee, eggs benedict, garlic spread, and chocolate. I am convinced that tofu can be part of any meal. I believe that a full stomach and sleep are the cure for everything. Besides sleep and food, I best relax with a book, movie, series, or watching sports on TV. I like to boast that I grew up in the nineties. I am really proud of it. It was an honor to experience that era as a child. Similar texts usually end with a quote, but I don't know any.

Spending long summer days at our cottage wasn't exactly fun for me. Fortunately, my cousin kept me company. A regular supply of all sorts of sports was provided. It's true that not all our activities were necessarily improvised. Our neighbors, of similar age, taught us to play croquet or bocce with proper equipment. Thanks to them, we also tried riding a real skateboard. Even so, most of our sports activities were inextricably linked to manual labor. We were lucky that there was a concrete court near the cottage. A place for one of our childhood's favorite sports. Footvolley. We didn't have a net, of course. But we had a string. It wasn't a net, but it was clear when the ball crossed to the opponent's side according to the rules. So, in about 50% of cases. With every second ball, it wasn't clear whether it flew under or over the string. This led to many disputes. To improve the flow of the game, we cut smaller pieces of string and tied them vertically to the net along its entire length. It didn't help much. But no one could take away the feeling that we were actually playing footvolley. Later, we also got tennis rackets and could play tennis. Recognizing whether a tennis ball crossed the net or not was already a superhuman task.

We also tried many smaller sports, such as archery, slingshot shooting, fishing, and cart racing. When I returned home at the end of the summer, the hockey season was starting. The goals were even welded for us by a helpful villager, but we didn't have nets for them anymore. So, curtains had to suffice. The goalkeepers wore baseball caps instead of catcher's mitts, and we often played with borrowed hockey sticks held in the wrong hand because we broke our own. I can't say we came out unscathed, but we survived. We took away many memories and experiences from life. Sport, therefore, once again fulfilled one of its essential roles and helped shape our young lives. Because of everything we experienced as young boys, we probably still play sports today.

Author: Jakub Šindelář

NEWS

5 Openings and One Bonus That Changes the Game

We kicked off 2025 in grand style – we opened five new sports locations that bring joy not only to athletes but also to us. From running tracks to football fields, from Prague to Ústí – take a look at what's been happening.

Decathlon Fitness & Run Store Pankrác

In Arkády Pankrác, we opened our new specialized store for runners and fitness enthusiasts. The seventh Prague store focuses on those who want to get their bodies moving – whether you're a beginner or perfecting your personal bests. Special displays, inspiration, and plenty of new items to try. Richard Hulva, the store director, is clear: "Running and fitness are at home here – I'm looking forward to what we can achieve together."

Decathlon Ústí nad Labem

From now on, all regional cities have their Decathlon! In Globus in Trmice, we opened the 27th store in the Czech Republic. With an area of 1650 m², customers will find complete equipment for dozens of sports – from mountain hikes to cycling along the Elbe. Congratulations to the entire team, and we wish them much success!

Store Highlights

Chodov Running Store

Running is taken seriously here. Triple the running shoes compared to a classic store, top racing textiles that were previously only available online, and a special, beautiful display. And yes – you can try on the shoes in which running records are broken.

Chodov Road Cycling Store

Grams, watts, aerodynamics – for all road cycling enthusiasts, we have built a Proshop on Chodov that has everything. From bikes for beginners to racing specials, professional bike fitting from KOA, and a team that really knows their stuff. Come and see the second road cycling Proshop in the world!

Chodov Football Store

You can't win without teammates! On Chodov, we opened a specialty store for all footballers. Boots, shin guards, balls – and brands known worldwide, as well as local Czech producers. Come for equipment, or to chat with us about who will win the next Czech league season. Our ambassadors Milan Petržela (FK Viktoria Žižkov) and Adam Vlkanova (FC Hradec Králové) also attended the grand opening.

YourLOX: Sport Made More Accessible

The collaboration between Decathlon and YourLOX is another step towards making sport not limited to sports halls or expensive equipment. Thanks to smart LOX lockers directly in parks and public playgrounds, sport becomes accessible to everyone – without the need to own anything or search for long. Besides sustainability and circular economy, it's mainly about the joy of movement – and we are proud to be part of this transformation of public space into a place where people play sports and where life happens.

Author: Jakub Vaníček

INTERVIEW WITH MARTINA HAVLOVÁ

Diversity is natural. Inclusion comes from us.

Martina Havlová, leader of the diversity, inclusion, and equality project at Decathlon, shares why these principles are so important for each of us and how they translate into our daily work. Since I know Maťka Havlová well, this interview took place in a very friendly atmosphere. We decided to publish it as authentically as possible. Maťka's four-year-old son Hugo also participated in the interview.

Who is Martina Havlová?

I joined Decathlon after my studies and work in Scotland. Because my husband is from Liberec, I settled there and came across an offer for a department manager position. Without knowing Decathlon, I went for an interview in Ostrava with a bit of trepidation. I didn't know how much of a sports enthusiast I had to be to get hired. I love movement and what it does to a person, but I've never done anything at a professional level. I was hired for the position of fitness department manager, and after 2 years, I became an operations manager* and then a trainee director at Černý Most. Slovakia was about to open, and they were looking for someone local with experience. The then country leader, Jérôme Morice, stopped by the store, and I'll never forget it, he said: "It was your birthday, wasn't it?" I, totally shocked, replied. And he gave me a blue box with the tag "Martina, Store Director Bory." So I opened the first Slovak store! I literally remember the excavators and the field on which the store was built. Subsequently, I also opened the first store in a shopping center. Trained in the Czech Republic, I trained in Slovakia extensively, but it soon became clear that a more comprehensive system for recruitment, integration, and training was needed, and that we needed to focus on rewarding and developing teammates in detail. And so, we started building the HR department. Then came COVID, which meant more time for myself and my partner, and then Hugo was born (laughs).

So, before COVID, you didn't have much personal time and spent a lot of it at work?

Yes, but with total enthusiasm! I know that for someone outside Decathlon, it might be hard to understand. I asked couples at Decathlon, and I think there's understanding there. But when one of the partners doesn't work at Decathlon, I think they sometimes can't understand our passion. True story.

How was your return after maternity leave?

Our family situation changed significantly; my husband was with me in Bratislava for 5 years and wanted to be closer to his family, so we moved to Liberec. They expected me back in Slovakia after my maternity leave, but in the Czech Republic, I had to find a new project. Our CEO Anna had been telling me about the need for a DEI leader/leader since August 2023. The topic of diversity, inclusion, and equality had been on the table for some time, and there was no one who fully embraced it. For me, this topic was also somewhat personal. I am a woman, a foreigner, a parent, and I also have a health limitation. At the same time, we are a caravan family – traveling and discovering new things is part of me and now also my son.

So, to answer your question – from my own experience, I know that returning to work, whether after parental leave or after a longer break, perhaps due to illness, can be challenging. Regardless of gender or experience. I also know men who sought balance between family and work, and they also needed understanding. It's not about gender, but about a phase of life when you need a slightly different approach.

Let's clarify, what does your topic actually mean, what does the acronym DEI stand for?

*The word 'managerka' is automatically corrected by the text editor as an error (editor's note).

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion

Diversity, equity, inclusion. In Czech, diversity means variety, inclusion means engagement, and equality means equal rights. It's a very broad topic, but at the same time, there's nothing new about it; it's natural for people, but it needs to be nurtured. Diversity means all the differences you can find in your team – age, gender, health status, faith, religion, lifestyle, life phase, neurodiversity, care for loved ones, or even whether you are single or married. Inclusion means we take these differences into account and create an environment where everyone can fully participate. And equality ensures that everyone has a fair opportunity – for example, for education, growth, or rewards. It's not about favoritism, but about fair conditions for different situations.

So, for example, I have a parent in my team who can work until three o'clock, and then a student who can work until late afternoon. Inclusion, very simply put, means I accommodate both of them, and it works for me too.

That's right. I tried to explain it simply to our leaders. Diversity is natural; it exists. Inclusion comes from us; you create it. Equality in the team then ensures that all these people have the same chance of success. But the most important thing is inclusion, because that's what isn't given and what needs to be worked on. And why? Because at Decathlon, you will always have a diverse, varied team.

Why did the discussion about inclusion start at Decathlon now?

Inclusion is and always has been part of Decathlon's DNA. It's not being discussed now; we are just talking about it specifically. We are a diverse company; diversity is natural for us. We have students, older colleagues, people of various nationalities, health statuses, or gender identities. But we only become an inclusive employer when our setup is also in our directives, internal rules, and most importantly, when all teammates understand what inclusion is.

But there are still many people who pause at this...

At the fact that inclusion needs to be advanced further? Well, Czech Decathlon underwent an audit, which showed that our teammates believe that diversity is important for Decathlon. And when asked "Do I contribute to Decathlon being an inclusive company?" 96% of our teammates answered yes in the last barometer. So I don't know (laughs). I think that the reaction of someone who was surprised that we want to be a modern, safe, fair, and socially responsible company is simply their own fear and lack of knowledge.

So the problem is more that we don't know how to talk about it?

Partly, yes. My first goal is to ensure that in Decathlon Czech Republic, we talk about inclusion or integration using the same language – that first, we truly explain to everyone what it is, why we are dealing with it, and how it affects all of us (positively).

Is there perhaps any other fear from leaders and leaders? Maybe about some reporting?

I don't know, they don't have to do anything like that, but people are generally afraid of change. And perhaps they feel that as soon as a topic is opened, it immediately becomes a KPI. But that's not the case. When I started in this position, some even asked: "Why are you picking on something that isn't a problem?" My answer is: data. The aforementioned audit also showed that our people perceive growth opportunities for women, older people, people with disabilities, and certain nationalities as less accessible. That's a signal for action for me.

We also underwent an external audit and obtained the EDGE certificate. What does it mean for us?

First of all, I want to say that the certificate itself wasn't our primary goal. We wanted to find out where we stand and get data. The certificate is our public commitment that we will actively work to be a truly inclusive employer. We were audited by an independent Swiss company (EDGE), thanks to which we found out that we are naturally diverse, but we don't have it "in black and white" anywhere, and we lack official and professional procedures. The certificate is divided into several parts. First, the processes were checked, e.g., how we recruit, integrate, train, or evaluate teammates. All the data is then fed into a table, where auditors can see if the same applies to men and women, whether, for example, a pay gap is created, etc. ... This is followed by a questionnaire, which teammates answered anonymously, to confirm or refute the conclusions from the previous parts.

So, what's the next step?

Many things are already happening that you might not have even noticed. For example, when you go to our career page or look at internal job postings, it no longer says "looking for a leader," but "leader*leaderess," and the photos are more diverse. This subconsciously influences external and internal people, who then apply more for positions they might not have dared to before.

That's interesting! So, not many girls applied?

That's not the problem. If you started a fashion brand with unisex t-shirts but only had them photographed on women, very few men would buy from you. People think visually; they don't read much, so it's really important today what you show on the website and whether you use inclusive language.

Okay, continue, what else are you working on?

For example, a very simple step, like including parents who are on maternity or parental leave in the team organigram, informing them, and inviting them to important store meetings. It might not seem like much, but I can confirm that it can help a lot when they return to work. These are people we have trained, so why let them go to other companies? Terezka Maděrová is currently working on training leaders in this area. We also released a great episode of Decast with Karel and Štěpánka, who both have different disabilities but work with us normally. Danča Svobodová is our main contact for cooperation with non-profit organizations. Through these partnerships, we are learning how to better integrate people with disabilities or mental impairments into the work environment. We are also working on professional recruitment and remuneration policies. However, what we need to catch up on is communication. We don't have anything published on the website, for example, about what diversity and inclusion mean to us. On the DEI page of the intranet, a nice list of all initiatives is gradually being created. And you know what? I am sure that we don't even know about many great inclusion steps that our teammates are taking – and I would really like to. So, I will use this amazing medium, Dekáč, and ask everyone who would like to share what they are doing and inspire others: write to me, call me anytime!

Have you experienced a moment where the power of inclusion became fully apparent?

Sometimes things happen just by talking about it and expressing your stance. You don't even know who you are influencing with what and how you say it. For example, I received a thank you for the asterisk (leader*leaderess) from someone who it directly concerns and for whom it is important.

It's the year 2050; what do you think a perfect inclusive reality in Decathlon and the Czech Republic would look like?

So, I'll close my eyes and make a wish. I wish that our teams continue to reflect the true diversity of society: age, gender, abilities, origin, identity, and lifestyle. May mental health be a natural part of employee care – just like OHS or sports. May we also employ people with hearing or visual impairments, neurodivergent people, because they bring new perspectives. May women have more role models of women – managers with families. And something that will happen much sooner, in my opinion – may men have role models of fathers who spend time with their children and not just at work. So they know that they don't bear the burden of being the primary breadwinner, which I think would greatly affect the mental health of men.

In short: in 2050, inclusion will no longer be a project because it will become a way of doing things. In companies, at school, on the street, and on the playground.

What is one thing readers should take away from our interview?

That each of us has their own story and their own needs. That inclusion is also about noticing someone who works differently or needs something special, and making an agreement with them. Some need flexibility due to school, others due to health limitations or childcare. It's important to say: "I can still do this for you, but not that." Clear communication is key. That each of us can be the one who creates inclusion. And you don't have to be afraid of new topics – when they come from the heart and with respect.

At the very end, I want to say that I am very grateful and proud to work at Decathlon, where we make not only sport accessible but also work for people who share our values. When I opened the first Decathlon, my dream came true because I always wanted to do something positive for the world. And now I am glad to be part of the beginnings and further development of DEI in the Czech Republic.

Author: Petra Baštanová

Do you feel safe in Decathlon?

Do you feel you can fully express yourself and be yourself?

Or do you know of a nice example of inclusion?

Let us know! Anytime!

DOSTUPNÝ PRODUKT

In 2 Seconds, Everything Can Change

Just throw the tent into the air and let it set itself up before your eyes... A scene from a sci-fi movie. But you surely suspect it's not magic. It's a reality that millions of people worldwide can experience, thanks to Quechua 2 Seconds tents. In 2025, this outdoor legend celebrates its twentieth anniversary. Twenty years of adventures, innovations, trips, overnight stays, festivals, barbecues, outings with children, and big road trips. Twenty years when camping has become easier than ever before. And most importantly, accessible to everyone.

A Crazy Idea That Changed Everything

It's the year 2003. During a regular development meeting in the Quechua design team, one of the product managers, Jean-François Ratel, voices an idea that surprises everyone: "I dream of a tent that sets itself up." Although it sounds crazy, no one laughs. Instead, the entire team gets to work. They experiment, draw, cut fabric, and test mechanisms. 2 years, over 100 prototypes, and countless hours of work later, the first self-erecting tent sees the light of day. It's clear to everyone that the world of camping has just changed. In 2005, the tent named 2 Seconds appears on the market and immediately becomes an absolute sensation.

Two Seconds is Enough

Imagine arriving at a campsite, tired after a long journey. Everyone around you is struggling with pegs, flysheets, and instructions, wondering which pole goes into which hole. And you simply grab the round package, throw it into the air, and in an instant, the tent stands before you. Done. You can start a fire, pull out a guitar, or just lie down and listen to the rustling of the forest.

The Advantage of the Two-Second Tent

Accessible, simple, fast. In short, the ideal companion for anyone who wants to spend time outdoors, not hours setting up camp or spending their entire paycheck on a weekend shelter. Its accessibility and practicality have made it loved by adventurers, families, festival-goers, and those who occasionally want to sleep outdoors, perhaps in the garden or by a lake outside the city.

Don't Rest on Your Laurels

The tent was a huge success, and perhaps it might seem that there was nothing left to improve. However, over the past twenty years, a whole range of models with the 2 Seconds designation has been introduced. Each new piece brought something extra. More comfort, better ventilation, more durable materials, or clever details.

Author: Alena Kadlčíková

What Has Happened in Twenty Years

• 2006: Model 2 Seconds Air with ventilation panels that ensure better airflow in the tent. If you've ever slept in a tent, you know it doesn't take tropical heat for the tent to become a stuffy sauna.
• 2012: The Fresh technology significantly reduces the temperature inside the tent. Thanks to special layers, it reflects solar radiation, which in practice means up to a 17°C lower temperature inside the tent.
• 2016: The 2 Seconds Fresh & Black tent is cool and dark. It perfectly blocks light and allows users to sleep even after sunrise. Finally, you can really sleep in the tent.
• 2020: The EASY 2 Seconds model adds a magic button. Thanks to it, you can fold the tent just as quickly as you set it up. Ideal for those who don't like spending time packing or simply haven't learned the trick of folding the round one.
• 2025: This year's novelties include limited edition pieces, new colors, an extra-large vestibule, new materials, and even sneakers inspired by the spirit of 2 Seconds.

Fresh & Black Technology

The Fresh & Black technology is not just "any improved fabric." It's a sophisticated system of four layers that together darken and cool the inside of the tent.

1. Polyester, which forms the base.
2. Titanium dioxide – reflects solar radiation.
3. Carbon filter – absorbs heat.
4. Aluminum insulation – maintains a pleasant climate.

Even if it's over 30°C outside, you won't bake in the tent and feel like you're in a sauna. The material can significantly reduce the temperature. In direct sunlight, this difference is up to 17°C. Thanks to 99% blackout, you can also sleep in peacefully in the morning and won't have to wake up with the first rays of the sun.

TOP PRODUKT

Sport Without Limits

Sport means joy, freedom, and self-confidence. At Decathlon, we believe that sport is for everyone, and therefore we offer special products and solutions for athletes with disabilities. Our goal is to enable sports experiences for 130 million people with physical disabilities, whether permanent or temporary.

Adapted Sports is a project through which Decathlon actively breaks down barriers in sports. Our products are developed directly in cooperation with those who will use them, to ensure their maximum autonomy not only during the sports activity itself but also before and after. The Adapted Sports team found that the preparation for sports performance itself discourages athletes with disabilities from participating in sports more often. Therefore, the products are designed to facilitate and speed up, for example, dressing. Autonomy means more than just the ability to play sports independently – it also means independence in everyday life and the opportunity to actively integrate into society.

All our products are designed to support inclusivity and the natural integration of people with disabilities into sports communities. Whether it's special sports wheelchairs, adapted fitness equipment, or handbikes tailored to the needs of athletes with disabilities, everything is created with the aim of ensuring the best possible user experience. We also utilize modern digital technologies that facilitate the use of our products and increase their accessibility.

What is the current offer like?

You can find special wheelchairs for basketball, athletics, or racket sports, as well as unique handbikes. In addition, we offer thoughtful clothing that is easy to put on thanks to practical zippers on the sleeves and legs. There are also products for the special game of Boccia, which is similar to pétanque and was created as a game for people affected by polio. And there is also equipment for footballers with visual impairments, because football can be played by anyone!

Decathlon also actively participates in creating positive awareness about sports for people with disabilities. We organize various events and workshops where we share our experiences and where representatives of athletes with disabilities can discuss their needs. The Adapted Sports project is also a way to give athletes with disabilities self-confidence and change how they perceive themselves and how their surroundings perceive them. Besides physical fitness, sport also brings many psychological benefits – it helps overcome personal limits, strengthens the sense of belonging, and builds respect and understanding in society.

Adapted Sports from Decathlon is not just sports equipment. It's primarily a chance to make life better for millions of people. We are very happy that thanks to our ideas, athletes with disabilities can experience true freedom and joy in sports. Together, we show that sport can truly be for everyone.

Author: Jakub Vaníček

Interview with Karel Lettner, who uses the Decathlon BW500 Basketball Wheelchair

How does a sports wheelchair for basketball differ from a regular wheelchair used in everyday life?

A sports wheelchair is completely different. It looks completely different and behaves differently. The large wheels are shaped like an "A" for stability; it has small wheels in the front and back that prevent tipping, but it still happens that we tip over. Another thing the wheelchair has are straps that hold us in the chair so we don't fall out – for example, during a collision with an opponent. There is also a kind of plow at the bottom near the feet that protects our toes and feet. A sports wheelchair does not have brakes.

How does the wheelchair compare to custom-made ones? What are their advantages and price differences?

Custom-made wheelchairs are definitely in a different league. They are lighter, made precisely for each player according to their disability, but I must say that the Decathlon wheelchair is not bad at all; it plays well for me. Its big advantage is that, besides the seat width you choose when ordering, you can completely adjust the wheelchair – the backrest height, the seat depth and tilt, the footrest height. This is great when someone is starting out and doesn't yet know which wheelchair suits them, or for clubs where players rotate, and they can adapt the wheelchair for them. The price of a custom-made wheelchair is about 110 thousand and up, while the Decathlon wheelchair is half the price, which is a great accessible price.

How long did it take you to feel confident in the sports wheelchair and focus solely on the game?

It wasn't immediate, that's for sure. My first experience was during rehabilitation at RÚ Kladruby, where I was for four months after my injury. We had sports like handball and basketball there; patients who had been in wheelchairs longer would race past us because they knew how to move in wheelchairs. I would say it took me several weeks to get used to it, and then it's about fitness, which a person also has to build up.

What do you have to check on the wheelchair, and how does it handle contact and collisions with other players?

Before every training session and game, I mainly check the tire pressure on the wheelchair to ensure they are properly inflated. Another thing with my wheelchair is checking the tightness of all screws and checking the small wheels to see their condition. As for contact with other players, it's usually fine. It's just wheelchair-on-wheelchair contact – you get used to it, but sometimes it ends with us lying on the ground, and others have to help us back onto the wheels. It's usually without injury. I mostly get injuries from the ball itself, which has hit me several times or broken my fingers.

What reaction do you get from other experienced teammates and opponents when they see that Decathlon also offers equipment for people with disabilities?

When people – not just players – saw me for the first time, they asked where I got the wheelchair. When I tell them it's from Decathlon, and then mention the great price and its adjustability, they are surprised. Nobody knows that Decathlon offers items for people with disabilities. I am personally very satisfied with the wheelchair. Another thing I would like to try are gloves for wheelchair users.

DECATHLON Invalidní vozík na basketbal 24" BW500

64 999 Kč

+ Možnost nastavení: Vozík nastavitelný dle potřeb uživatele. Vhodný na zápasy.

Zdravotnický prostředek: Je certifikován dle normy EN 12183 institucí Cerah, která kontroluje, zda výrobek splňuje veškerá kritéria.

kód: 8771191

AMBASSADOR

What do you do when you're not running? How do you not run? Or how to run to an ultratrail.

They say everyone can run. And it's true that catching a tram or running to a meeting can be managed by almost anyone. But how does one train for ultramarathons, and what is needed besides strong determination? Veronika Počtová, a DSL running ambassador, will advise on what equipment to get and how you can work your way up to mountain running.

Verča joined Decathlon in 2018, through French. Thanks to her work in the translation team, she could combine two areas that interested her back then – sports and French. Over time, her passion for running led her to the e-commerce team, where she now works as a Digital Sport Leader for running. "I liked that at Decathlon, I had enough space for sports, especially running. I've been running during lunch breaks since the beginning, and I often run to and from work, so I fully utilize the time I would otherwise spend on public transport."

What do you do when you're not running?

"How do I not run? I'm running all the time!" For Verča, running is no longer just a sport; it's a lifestyle and, in a way, an addiction. She has never pursued running competitively and claims to be just a hobbyist. Initially, she ran just to clear her head and stretch a bit, but gradually it became a full-time activity. "I don't have any winter or summer breaks, and I don't even need to warm up; I just run all the time. I just divide it into periods when I run more and train for something, and times when I run less," she says. "I've never worried about time or distance. I only completed my first race after several years, and in the euphoria after finishing, I decided to try a half-marathon." With the offer to participate in the Vltava run, everything gradually started to pick up speed, the distances covered increased, and Verča exchanged the road for the trail. And like almost everyone who has tasted trail running, she started thinking about the legendary B7. "I would like to point out that it was a process of several years," she recounts, "from a half-marathon distance to ultra, it was a gradual journey of several years, during which I battered my legs and tested my body and mind. But I fell in love with mountain running, so I continue to explore what I can handle. I want to find out where my limit is," she laughs. She hasn't hit it yet, but she recalls being very close twice. For example, when she started falling asleep while walking or had hallucinations.

Training is essential

"My goal is to be trained enough to manage the race and be able to walk and function normally the next day." It sounds boring, but it's a very ambitious goal. The body will be put through a lot, and the second night after the race is usually very tough. "I just don't want the race to sideline me for several days." The atmosphere of big races is so intense that sometimes you completely forget yourself in the action.

And the next day (or more days) it really hurts. "I usually already know where my place is in the race, what time I have, and how I should run. But that doesn't mean the atmosphere doesn't still sweep me away," she adds with a smile.

You need to engage your brain

Physical fitness is one thing, but the mind is the real master during long races, determining the pace. During longer races, she says, calculating the route and estimating how long it will take to reach the finish line works well. "I try to estimate how much is left until the end and try to compare it to sections of routes that I know well," explains Verča's strategy. "I also often imagine crossing the finish line and someone waiting for me there." Because at the end of the race, it's best to meet friends who might have run faster than you, or someone from your family. "That shared joy is the most important thing."

Crises

In any race, regardless of distance, it's normal to experience a crisis. In ultra races, they often come more frequently; it depends on the length of the race. Sometimes a person is on a cloud, i.e., in flow, and then they can suffer immensely for a few kilometers. Sometimes the body rebels, sometimes the mind. However, running, especially over long distances, is primarily about the mind. "The most important thing is to set the given distance in your mind, and then it just works." She has various tricks for this, for example, when there's a big crisis and you can't even run on a flat surface, it's good to look forward to the hills because you can run slowly there. According to Verča, sometimes the brutal truth is the best. "There are moments when I want to quit right there and just collapse and cry. But what then? No one will come for me, so I'll take a deep breath and continue."

Aid Stations

Replenishing energy is an indispensable part of long races. Everyone is different, and finding the right time and amount of food, drink, and various supplements is not easy. Verča herself says that even after years, it's not perfect for her. "At first, I didn't think about it at all and only ate when I felt hungry." But that's wrong, because over time, your energy will simply run out, and when that happens, you're usually unable to force anything down, at most some soda or isotonic drink. The ideal is to test how your body works during training and set regular refueling times. "For example, I need to refuel after 45-60 minutes of running. So I keep that in mind and try to stick to the intervals throughout the race. Our energy bars work great for me, but also gels and isotonic drinks from the Penco brand." According to Verča, it also depends on the length of the race. When it's very long, towards the end, she doesn't feel like eating anything sweet, so she appreciates things like cheese or non-alcoholic beer at the aid stations.

What's next?

As boundaries are pushed and distances covered increase, new goals emerge. Just casually jogging isn't enough, so Verča is planning new challenges. "I would definitely like to complete a hundred-mile race in the mountains abroad someday," she smiles. "Lavaredo is an option, or UTMB in the mecca of ultra runners, Chamonix, but Gran Canaria also appeals to me," she lists mountain ultra-trail destinations. "I have respect for the mountains. I'm intimidated by weather changes, immense distances, and also difficult terrain, where a moment of inattention can turn into a very big problem." For mountain running, you really need to prepare your body and mind thoroughly. And most importantly, enjoy it. She concludes her talk with the advice that even during races, it's often not necessary to rush.

Favorite Events

Verča has countless race experiences, but here are a few of her favorites:

• Ještěd 24h, Skyrace – "I've done 24 hours there as part of a team, in a pair, and individually. It's a big running party."
• Lavaredo by UTMB – "A race in Cortina. There are several routes to choose from, from 20 km to 170 km. I ran 50 km and would like to return there for a longer route."
• O-See Ultratrail – "A race in the Lusatian Mountains under the XTERRA banner. The route takes you through the Czech and German sides of the Lusatian Mountains and is largely runnable. No big hills and beautiful nature."
• 250 km Relay Race in Bohemian Paradise – "My personal favorite. We've been running it since the very beginning. What's great about the two hundred and fifty kilometers is that there aren't such long transfers as in other relay races."

If you're not a race type but enjoy challenges, Verča recommends the Zlatá stezka Českého ráje (Golden Trail of Bohemian Paradise) crossing, which she has successfully completed, or Zubatá, which she hasn't escaped yet, but will certainly try again.

My Running Gear

• Backpack - Kalenji 101
• Poles - Kiprun carbon poles
• Shoes - MT Cushion 2 or KS 900.2
• Clothing - Warm Rain leggings, trail waterproof jacket, Run 900 shorts, Run 900 windbreaker
• Watch - Garmin

Author: Alena Kadlčíková

CAREER

Decathlon Store Directors

Although men and women have equal opportunities at Decathlon, there are still significantly fewer women in director positions. We asked our current directors to share their experiences.

Aneta Sehnálková

Sports advisor Decathlon Olomouc – Sports advisor Decathlon Brno Modřice – Department manager Decathlon Olomouc – Operations manager Decathlon Olomouc – Operations manager and coach of department managers Decathlon Letňany and completion of studies at FTK UPOL – Department manager Decathlon Černý Most – Running Expert Decathlon Chodov – Store Director Černý Most

Majka Vyoralová

Business Academy – Incomplete university studies – Journey to America – Opening and running her own pub – Department manager Decathlon Zlín – Department manager Decathlon Brno Modřice – Store Director Decathlon Frýdek-Místek

Veronika Vitekrová

Ski instructor/animator – Part-time employee at Decathlon Ostrava Avion and completion of studies – Department manager Decathlon Frýdek-Místek – Department manager Decathlon Ostrava Avion – Store Director Decathlon Opava

When did you first say to yourself that you could lead a team? Were there any key moments on this journey? Who inspired you?

Aneta: I wanted to be an operations manager primarily, but I realized that I was also interested in the financial side of the store and leading people, so I naturally moved towards a director position. All my coaches – Peťa Salaj, Hanka Staniszová, Tom Kortus, and Denča Hovůrková – definitely influenced me. I took something from each of them. I was quite determined to become a director, but I didn't need anyone to push me explicitly.

Majka: I sent my CV to Decathlon at a time when I had 3 years of experience running my own pub. I spent all my time there and needed a change. Decathlon caught my eye during the integration process, mainly because we have a mission and a goal. What we do makes sense. I enjoyed the work from the beginning, but I knew that the department in Zlín would be too small for me eventually. I counted on moving forward so that the work would continue to interest me and so that I could learn something new.

Veronika: My journey began even before Decathlon. I studied English for managerial practice, and during my studies, I worked a lot with children as a sports instructor or animator. I've always been drawn to leading people. Developing people has always made sense to me, and because I did things to the best of my ability, results followed – both human and economic. That's why I received an offer (after my previous work as a sports advisor in Ostrava and then manager in Frýdek-Místek) to join the winter sports department at Ostrava Avion. A larger store meant greater responsibility. Less than a year later, I received an offer to become a director in Opava.

What skills or qualities do you consider most important for success in a leadership role? And what is your leadership style?

Aneta: As a director, you must be open to people, eager to develop them, customer-oriented, and have drive. It's also good to be organized and lead by example. My leadership style involves trying to get to know the people I lead – everyone is motivated by something different. I individually support what that person needs. Trust from me and responsibility are also important. I dedicate the most attention to my team of department leaders, but every team member knows they can come to me anytime.

Majka: Communication – that's the key to success for me. Honesty – if I am honest with my team, they will be honest with me. Openness – being on the floor with the team and seeing what's happening there. I see what we need to change, and then I can tell myself and my coach – this works in our store, or this doesn't work. I believe teammates appreciate that I am often on the floor with them, and when I ask something, I get honest answers.

Veronika: Natural leader – that helps me the most. I don't know if it can be learned or if it's something a person has within them, but it has helped me throughout my career at Decathlon. I am close to people, and leading people is enjoyable for me. And also, being authentic, so that nothing feels forced.

Have you encountered any specific challenges in your career as a woman in a leadership position?

Aneta: I must say that I have never encountered anyone disadvantaging me because I am a woman. Here at Decathlon, everyone has the same opportunities, and it depends only on them whether they want to grow.

Majka: I come from a village, so when I was younger, I perceived leadership positions as being mainly for men, and I thought it was normal. On the other hand, everyone knew me from childhood, and thanks to the pub, they knew I was capable of organizing work not only for myself but also for the team. Perhaps I don't understand the technical aspects that much, but I'm here to handle people and business.

Have there been moments when you doubted yourself, whether you "have it"?

Aneta: On the contrary, I think I had too much self-confidence on my way to becoming a director (laughs); it went through.

Majka: I doubt myself all the time, even though I might seem confident. Even when I moved to a different store, I always thought in my head about how the new team would accept me. In the end, I always told myself that I would just be myself. In the beginning, I wasn't entirely sure when negotiating with some suppliers and partners. However, I always had the support of my coaches; someone was always there to advise me. I want my colleagues to feel the same way, to not be afraid to come to me and discuss things they are unsure about, and for me to be able to help them.

Veronika: There were times when I needed confirmation that I was doing something right. The first year in a new position is always the hardest – you learn and go through many things for the first time. You need to experience it and gain experience. Once the first results come, you become more confident. I haven't completed a full year as a director yet, so I'm still cautious. Once the first year passes, I'll have a solid foundation. However, it's also important to realize that you can't prepare for everything 100%. When the offer for director came, I didn't think about whether I was ready. I knew there were other people behind it who believed in me. I jumped at the opportunity; in fact, I was waiting for it. Now it's more about me being responsible and wanting to do it all correctly.

How do you manage to balance work and personal life? Do you have any tricks or rituals?

Aneta: The job of a store director is time-consuming. I must admit that in certain periods, for example, last year when we completely rebuilt the store, work significantly encroached on my free time. But the project demanded it, and I enjoyed it. In the end, it can be balanced; it depends on what the priority is at the moment. I have time to dedicate to both sports and my partner after work. As for my team, I let them balance it as they see fit. The leaders at Černý Most have my trust.

Majka: Personal life is much better now than when I worked in hospitality, although sometimes a lot piles up. I won't lie; sometimes I take my laptop home. However, I try to really focus only on what's most important. My team respects my days off and doesn't contact me unless it's absolutely necessary, so I have time to enjoy my time off. I usually dive into things headfirst and 100%, and it's also good to know when to slow down and not do everything at maximum, not to have everything done immediately, but to prioritize. My coach Verča Horáková helps me with this – she sets boundaries for me (thanks, Veru). I guess I needed to hear it from someone, because it opened my eyes at the end of last year.

Veronika: I believe I can manage my free time and organize it so that important things are done, and what's not urgent can wait. I can enjoy my vacation and find balance.

What advice would you give to young women aspiring to leadership positions?

Aneta: I would definitely advise them to believe in themselves, go for their goals, dive in headfirst, and sometimes not overthink things.

Majka: Don't be afraid. If they are afraid of the position itself and fear is their only obstacle, there's nothing to be afraid of. If you want the position and want to grow, Decathlon and the experience you gradually gain will teach you. Plus, you will always have the support of your coach.

Veronika: To go after what they want. To do what they enjoy, and do it well. It doesn't have to be 100%, but if someone enjoys something, they should go for it. Opportunities are here for everyone.

How do you think Decathlon supports the development of women in leadership positions? Is it sufficient for you?

Aneta: Regarding Decathlon, I actually don't know why there are so few women in leadership positions when we have equal opportunities. I fear it's still partly societal – girls do this more, boys do that. That's probably still deeply ingrained in us. And regarding mothers, it's still a new topic for us because we started as a young team and are now maturing. Decathlon celebrates its 15th anniversary in the Czech Republic this year, and it hasn't been a prominent topic until now. But it is now, and I think we should support mothers and offer part-time positions. Think about how to integrate them back into work. Mothers from our team, for example, we invite them to our store meetings and try to listen to them and find ways to not only integrate them back into work but also to develop them further.

Majka: Decathlon certainly supports women just as it supports men. I don't like this pigeonholing of women vs. men. Let everyone do what they enjoy and what they are good at. Perhaps in the beginning, when I took on the position of department manager, I encountered opinions that it would be easier for me to advance because there are few women who want to advance at Decathlon. I always hoped and believed that I got the opportunity for advancement because of my abilities and for the work done, not because I am a woman. I pursued my own path from the beginning and tried to completely ignore this noise. I had a clear goal set with Peťa Nožička (then director of Zlín), and then I didn't really care what anyone thought. He was more demanding of me because he knew I wanted to grow, and he dedicated a lot of time to me. I don't think Czech girls are afraid to advance, but often due to their personal lives, they can't move, but that's a topic for a longer conversation.

Veronika: I think Decathlon does enough, although I don't know why there are so few of us. It's probably not easy to find a girl who believes in herself. Perhaps not everyone wants to lead people. It's just in my blood, even if I were a boy. It's also about the team setup. A mother-manager has just returned from maternity leave, and the whole team is getting used to it. It's simply different. She only works 30 hours a week, goes home earlier, and only works some weekends. I sometimes feel that there isn't complete understanding from others, so I observe how it will work out. The role of a director also involves balancing this. On the other hand, we are also accommodating to students, many of whom work at Decathlon. They enjoy working at Decathlon because we have flexible shifts. If we can accommodate students, why shouldn't we accommodate mothers too?

What is one thing you would like readers to take away from this interview?

Aneta: Don't be afraid of it and don't overthink it.

Majka: Everyone will remember that I had a pub anyway (laughs). I'm glad that through this interview, I realized that it might motivate someone among us to grow. So don't be afraid and go for it!

Veronika: Do what you enjoy; that's what it's all about. Don't push yourself where you don't want to be. Just be authentic.

Author: Kristýna Novotná

PILLARS

Company Culture at Decathlon

In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to forget what connects us and where we are heading. Our shared company culture, values, and mission "Move people through the wonders of sports" define us. We asked our teammates why they think it's important to have a mission and company culture in a company, what it means to them personally, and how it influences their daily work. The contributions are supplemented with photos from the spring competition, where teammates used photos to express what our mission means to them.

Working at Decathlon is more than just a job for me. It's a place where I enjoy myself, where I can be myself, develop, and do something that has meaning. One of the reasons I feel this way is our company culture. And what do I imagine by that? For me, it's primarily the style of leadership and communication. We – the employees – are at the center of it all. I have always felt that it is important to emphasize autonomy (responsibility), teamwork (generosity), and trust (authenticity). And all of this is complemented by daily energy and the desire to move things forward – that's vitality for me. This makes me feel that I am not just part of a large corporation but a member of a team that pulls together and moves towards the same goal. And this is what makes Decathlon Decathlon for me – we, the employees.

Martin Šebík, Decathlon Liberec

I used to be in a technical field, which I left due to its routine and lack of interpersonal contact. I'm glad that my path led me to Decathlon, because I definitely found what I was looking for there.

Honestly, the beginnings were a cultural shock for me. I had never experienced such different days filled with contact not only with dozens of customers but also with so many colleagues. The transition from one extreme to the other was challenging, but the willingness of my colleagues to teach me everything and help me with everything allowed me to manage it. Today, I can confidently say that I have found a place where I not only feel part of the team but where my work makes sense.

Julie Lutovinová, Decathlon Praha Pankrác

What is the company culture at Decathlon like for you? I like that everyone is very friendly to each other. The first thing that struck me was that everyone uses the informal "ty" form, regardless of their position or whether they've met before. I also enjoy that you can approach any leader and say, "I don't know how to handle this, can you help me?" I've never heard a "no" or "let your leader explain it to you."

The motto: "Do what you enjoy" is perfect! At Decathlon, there are only motivated athletes. Yes, there are days when I don't enjoy it on the shop floor (no customers or nothing to do), but these days are minimal in a year compared to when the store is buzzing. Moreover, Decathlon offers many career opportunities that can give you a new direction and impetus for further development and advancement.

I also receive feedback from my friends that Decathlon is a brand and that they enjoy shopping there. We have many items that are both inexpensive and great in terms of quality and price. When you add the customer experience in terms of returning unsatisfactory goods, Buyback options, and customer-focused communication, it's simply a place where people like to return. It fulfills me internally that I can advise someone.

Jiří Kudlička, Decathlon Liberec

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