Maraton lađa na Neretvi: Traditional rowing race concludes in Croatia

The 29th Maraton lađa na Neretvi, a traditional rowing competition using indigenous wooden boats, took place in Croatia. The event featured 31 male crews competing on a 22.5-kilometer route from Metković to Ploče. A notable moment in the race occurred during the finish when two rival crews from Metković and Komin chose to embrace and cross the finish line together.

In the women's category, the 13th Maraton lađarica saw the Udruga lađarica Sisak secure its fifth consecutive victory on a 10-kilometer course from Metković to Opuzen. Despite facing a 15-second penalty early in the race due to a collision, the Sisak crew maintained their rhythm to finish first.

The event, which draws tens of thousands of spectators, serves as a significant cultural preservation effort for the Neretva valley. Before the main race, the Festival of Traditions allowed regions like Varaždin County to showcase their heritage in Metković, further linking the northern and southern parts of the country.