Bosnia and Herzegovina on the world cycling map: The first ever Tour of BiH race kicks off

On the first day of the event, Sarajevo saw off around 170 professional cyclists, who faced a 390-kilometer challenge, divided into three stages that connect the heart of Bosnia with the south of Herzegovina. The first day and the first section from Sarajevo to Mostar immediately showed a determined pace, but also the dominance of one team.

"It was beautiful. We didn't have much time or energy to see the scenery, but it was very beautiful as far as I could see. I really liked the road too, it was perfect. There weren't too many potholes on the road and yes, it was perfect ," said Marko Toth, winner of the first stage (Team United Shipping).

The road to Mostar was not fully without challenges. There were a few falls, but fortunately, according to the organizers, no serious injuries. Even before the start, the riders emphasized the good competition and the importance of participating in such a high-level competition.

"I don't think it's that demanding when it comes to technique, however, if we take into account that we have participants from 38 countries in Europe and the world, that alone speaks for itself how difficult the race will actually be. I think we have a very good team, seven of us competitors from the country, we have come together in a really nice way and I think that the best drivers from the country are here who can achieve a very nice result ," said Vedad Karic from the Bosnia and Herzegovina team.

Christian Cornali from Italy didn't hide his excitement today either:

"I'm very excited to be here, because this is my first time in this category, my first stage race. Here in Bosnia, Sarajevo is a good city, I'm very excited and I think it will be a very nice race and we will try to win."

In terms of logistics, this is one of the most demanding sports projects in the country. In addition to 23 teams, the caravan is accompanied by personnel, including referees, medical teams and a police escort, while security along the route is also monitored from the air. For the organizers, this is the realization of a long-standing dream that goes beyond the sport itself.

"Today we are living our dream, I am happy for our national team members. Today we are presenting BiH through the best, through sport and tourism, but what I am most proud of is the unity, I must especially emphasize this, the unity of all the people, citizens from Sarajevo to Neum, who came forward to give support, to volunteer, to support the organization of this event and that is what makes me happy and fulfilled ," said Toni Zoric, race director of the Tour of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The route was carefully chosen through mountainous areas and river canyons, and over the next days it takes competitors from Mostar, via Capljina and Ljubuski, all the way to the only Bosnian coastal town, Neum.