"SAVA REGATTA" BRINGS LIFE BACK TO ORUBICA AND THE SAVA RIVER

More than fifty boats of various types set sail on Sunday from Gradiška, passing under the Sava bridge and heading toward Orubica as part of the 4th edition of the "Sava Regatta."

This event, one of the highlights of this year’s “Gradiška Summer on the Sava 2025,” attracted a record number of participants. Ideal weather conditions and the calm flow of the Sava River contributed to a smooth and successful start of the journey.

Miroslav Vuković, director of the Gradiška Cultural Center and organizer of the regatta for the fourth consecutive year, expressed his satisfaction with the growing popularity of the event.

— We chose St. Paul’s Day because there is a local gathering in Orubica then. Even though Orubica is depopulated, its people have never truly left it. Wherever they live now, their hearts remain in Orubica — said Vuković.

An essential part of the "Sava Regatta" are its captains, Božo Ivaštanin and Boris Rađen Barba.

Captain Ivaštanin shared his excitement with Glas Srpske reporters:

— Just the fact that we are heading toward my birthplace, Orubica, gives me an adrenaline rush. I enjoy every moment on the Sava, not just during the summer. Spending time on this river is the best recipe against stress — said Ivaštanin, who also offers Sava boat tours during the summer season.

Alongside the City Administration, the Gradiška Tourist Organization played a key role in supporting the event.

Snježana Gvozden, director of the Gradiška Tourist Organization, emphasized the untapped tourism potential of the Sava River:

— We are returning to the Sava. This river is a true tourism jewel of Gradiška that remains underused. It’s up to us to develop and support events like this — whether it’s regattas, fishing competitions, or other water-based activities. Of course, the Sava also offers perfect conditions for walking, relaxing, and enjoying nature — said Gvozden.

The regatta made a stop in Gornja Dolina before continuing toward Orubica, where a lunch and entertainment program were organized for all participants, including a live performance by the ensemble “Intermeco.”