Everything is ready for the 19th edition of the international cycling race “Belgrade – Banja Luka”, which officially starts today at noon.
The starting point is Republic Square in Belgrade, from where 175 cyclists from 37 countries, representing 25 top teams, will begin the battle for the prestigious title in the strongest regional race in this part of Europe. Vladimir Kuvalja, director of the Belgrade – Banja Luka race, confirmed that all is in place and that now it’s up to the cyclists to show what they’re made of. He also noted that this year’s event is expected to be the fastest in the race’s history.
— This year, unlike the last when we opened with a circuit race in Obrenovac, we’re starting from Republic Square in Belgrade. The first stage ends in Požarevac, with circuits raced in the city. It’s a short stage — just under 100 kilometers — but it will be extremely fast. This will be the fastest edition in the history of this event. Tomorrow we start from Obrenovac, pass through Šabac and Bogatić, cross the border at Pavlović’s Bridge, and finish with laps in Zvornik. That is the longest stage — 176 kilometers. It’s flat terrain, through the beautiful Podrinje region, and will be great for spectators.
The third stage, on Friday, starts in Bratunac and is also quite long — 168 kilometers. It’s the toughest, the so-called “queen stage,” with four mountain summits. This stage is also symbolic, as we start from the Bratoljub bridge in Bratunac, pass through Zvornik and Šekovići, and finish in Vlasenica. The final stage, 135 kilometers long, runs from Doboj to Banja Luka via the “January 9” highway, ending with a circuit in Banja Luka — where we’ll crown the winner of the 19th Belgrade – Banja Luka race after covering a total of 600 kilometers — said Kuvalja.
Is it true that the team lists were already full in November?
— We’ve never had problems attracting strong teams. From day one we’ve had good relationships with them, not just thanks to us, but also to the people in the towns and municipalities the race passes through, who always warmly welcome the cyclists. The attention from the media is also a big draw. The route is interesting, and we always try to offer something new to the riders and their teams. We’re expecting an extremely strong and exciting race.
Once again this year, a major focus is on connecting Serbia and Republika Srpska.
— That has been our main goal in recent years. The message this event sends — from both Republika Srpska and Serbia — is that we are good hosts, open to all, especially athletes. From the beginning, this race has promoted the idea that borders shouldn’t divide people, and that we should be connected in every possible way. Personally, I don’t recognize or like borders.
You have the support of both President Milorad Dodik and President Aleksandar Vučić, as well as the governments of Serbia and Srpska, mayors, and municipal heads along the route.
— I truly feel the support, both personally and for the race. Mr. Dodik personally supported me when sanctions were imposed on me, and he has continued to support the race. President Vučić is also familiar with our event. I thank them both, as well as the governments of Serbia and Srpska. Special thanks go to the mayors and local leaders in the cities the race passes through. As director of the “Tour of Serbia,” I’ve worked with cities like Zrenjanin and Novi Sad. Now, through this race, we’re working with Obrenovac and Požarevac, which joined this year. I must give special thanks to Belgrade mayor Aleksandar Šapić — a great patriot who immediately understood the idea behind Belgrade – Banja Luka. He loves Republika Srpska and gave us his full support, along with his team. I’m more than satisfied and proud of that cooperation.
What kind of challenges do you face?
— Look, it wouldn’t be normal if there weren’t any problems. But we’ve never had problems in Srpska or Serbia — that must be said clearly. I’ve grown with this race, and I think we manage the balance well. Every challenge Republika Srpska faces, the race faces too. We share the same struggles — and the same successes. That’s why I’m proud. We’ve united with Srpska and Serbia — we are the people’s race.
Source: RTRS
