19th Maraton Lađa – Traditional Vessel Race in Neretva this Weekend
- by croatiaweek
- in News
An annual traditional sporting event held on the second Saturday in August in Croatia will be held for the 19th time on Saturday 13 August 2016…
Maraton lađa is a rowing competition which involves racing of traditional vessels, known as lađa, which are native to the Lower Neretva River which flows through Croatia. Lađa were used by the old Neretva pirates, who terrorised the area back in the 10th century.
To preserve the traditions of the old Lađa, the 22.5 kilometre rowing race from Metković to Ploče was introduced for the first time in 1998.
(photo credit: maraton-ladja.hr)
Competing Lađa’s must meet certain requirements. Apart from being wooden, they must be between 7 and 8.2 meters in length, between 2.45 and 2.8 meters wide, 70cm deep, with 23 spokes or wooden rods. The oars must also be made of wood.
The women’s Maraton lađa race, which is held over 10 kilometres, was held today from Opuzen to Metković. 4 teams took place this year in the women’s race.
Results:
1. Gusarice Metković , 1.21.08 h
2. Stablina 1.24.12 h
3. Metkovke Metković 1.30.10 h
4. Lađarice Opuzen 1.35.47 h
This year’s winning women’s crew (photo: maraton.ladja)
If you are in the area this Saturday the men’s Maraton lađa race will start at 17:00.
Lađa
