Gorazde is hosting the open national kayak slalom championship today, attracting numerous athletes from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, and North Macedonia.

The event on the Drina River is organized by the Kayak Club “Buk” Gorazde.

“We have two start lists. The national championship includes competitors from Bosnia and Herzegovina, while the open competition is for participants from Serbia and North Macedonia. This event is the culmination of our months of hard work and a true promotion of this sport, our city, and our canton,” said Sanin Herenda, Vice President of KK “Buk”.

In preparation for the competition, athletes participated in the Development Kayak Camp held at Modran near Ustikolina in recent days.

Zoran Novakovic, coach of KK Cacak and international judge, expressed his satisfaction with the organization of the regional camp where kayakers had excellent training conditions. He believes that the competitors can expect great results.

“We were warmly welcomed, and the location is truly beautiful. The Drina River is stunning and clean, which is a rare sight. We have been to Switzerland and seen their rivers, but the Drina here is even more beautiful. This year, we support this pilot project of the regional camp for kayakers initiated by KK Buk, and we think it has a great future,” said Novakovic, confident that the participants will handle the Drina rapids well.

Among others, the competition includes KK Vrbas from Banja Luka, with member Nemanja Stankovic having already completed his first race.

“It's our first time here, and the course was somewhat challenging. I'm satisfied, and I'm aiming for a medal, but we'll see,” said Stankovic.

This year's open national championship is part of the 27th International Festival of Friendship. Tomorrow, the International Friendship Race in the classic and sprint downriver disciplines will take place, featuring numerous kayakers.