Today, a press conference was held in Sarajevo, within which an agreement on cooperation between Visit Sarajevo and the Tourist Board of Sarajevo Canton and the Association “Marathon” Sarajevo was signed. The planned activities of the Association for the next period were presented.
On that occasion, the representative of the Association Selma Kukić pointed out that health and economy are currently the most valuable resources of a country that the Association “Marathon” Sarajevo and Visit Sarajevo can build in Bosnia and Herzegovina through sports and tourism.
“Large sporting events organized at a high level attract the attention of athletes, recreationists and companies and have a direct impact on the economy through tourism, international promotion and greater domestic trade.” said Kukić and emphasized the importance of children and young people growing up with races organized on the city streets because she believes that only an example can build a healthy culture of living and communities for which the physical and mental health of young people is a priority.
The Chairman of the Commission of the Tourist Board of Canton Sarajevo Kenan Magoda mentioned active tourism as a global trend that has experienced its expansion in Bosnia and Herzegovina during the past period with a tendency to popularize this type of tourism in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
“Given the cultural-historical and natural wealth and recognizable sports history and affordable prices, Bosnia and Herzegovina offers numerous advantages and opportunities to respond to the needs of a new and growing tourism niche.” Magoda believes and she explained that the Association “Marathon” as a leader in organizing mass sports events is a true partner in joint efforts to provide local people and foreigners with content that is important for the Sarajevo Canton and the whole Bosnia and Herzegovina.
In addition to the official signing of the support contract, the Association announced planned sporting events for next year, which are already part of the tradition of their activities: 5 K Spring Run (May 22, 2022), 10 K Sarajevo Center (June 24, 2022), 5 K Runway (August 8, 2022) and the Sarajevo Half Marathon (September 18, 2022) and continued engagement in socially responsible projects aimed at increasing the participation of vulnerable groups in sports, such as people with disabilities and children without parental care.
From next year, the Association “Marathon” will implement a new strategic program of the Running School with the support of athlete Alija Imamović, BiH half marathon runner.
“I am happy to have had the opportunity to work with the Association and to share my knowledge and experience with our future and new members together with the NGO Marathon Sarajevo.” Imamović pointed out and invited all interested persons to become part of the Running School.
The representative of the Association “Marathon” Selma Kukić stressed the importance of supporting Visit Sarajevo as well as the Ministry of Culture and Sports of Canton Sarajevo, the Ministry of Civil Affairs, the City of Sarajevo and the Municipality of Novo Sarajevo for the successful work of the Association and achieving their common goals.
