MIRKO KECMAN WINS TRADITIONAL BALKANA GRASS MOWING CHAMPIONSHIP

MRKONJIĆ GRAD – Mirko Kecman from Bosanski Petrovac claimed first place in the traditional hand grass mowing competition at the "Balkana Mowing Days – Lazar Laketa Memorial", one of the region's most renowned heritage events. The competition brought together 20 skilled mowers from Republika Srpska, the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Serbia.

PHOTO: SRNA

Speaking after his victory, Kecman said that winning at Balkana requires not only hard work and dedication but also a bit of luck, given the strong competition each year.

Milorad Sladojević from Mrkonjić Grad finished second, while Nedeljko Kerlec, representing Novi Sad–Janj, secured third place.

Before the competition began, participants paid tribute to the late Lazar Laketa, a former European champion in traditional hand mowing and the founder of the event. A memorial service was held, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at his monument.

One of this year's highlights was the participation of 15 boys aged between nine and twelve, who completed the Balkana mowing school and took part in a special youth competition. All participants received certificates, medals, and commemorative awards.

The event opened with a colorful parade of competitors accompanied by folklore groups dressed in traditional costumes from Serbia, North Macedonia, and Mrkonjić Grad.

In addition to the hand mowing contest, competitors tested their strength and endurance in several traditional disciplines, including the long jump, arm wrestling, log balancing, stone throwing, and the prestigious "Delija" all-around competition. The title was won by Nebojša Spasojević from Ljig, who described the award as highly prestigious because it requires success against some of the finest competitors in every discipline.

In the team competition, the Janj–Novi Sad squad took first place, followed by the Han Pijesak team in second, while "Prva Kosa Grmeča" from Bosanski Petrovac finished third.

Among veterans, Milorad Sladojević won first place, ahead of Đuro Kerkez from Novi Sad and Drago Bogosavac from Serbia.

The winners received cash prizes, traditional mowing equipment, trophies, and diplomas.

Mrkonjić Grad Mayor Dragan Vođević emphasized the importance of preserving the event as part of the community's cultural identity.

"It is our duty to preserve this tradition and pass it on to future generations. That is why we organized, for the first time this year, a competition for young boys, who represent the future of the Balkana Mowing Days," Vođević said.

The event was also attended by members of the Association of People from Mrkonjić Grad based in Belgrade, who have supported the manifestation for many years. Association member Dragan Stojičić said they return to Mrkonjić Grad every year for the event, noting that the organization, founded in 1983 and now numbering around 700 members, is dedicated to preserving the traditions and heritage of their homeland.

This year's edition of the Balkana Mowing Days was held exclusively as a sporting event, without its usual accompanying cultural and entertainment program, in accordance with the Day of Mourning declared in Republika Srpska.