Frano Ivković (31) Wins 300th Sinjska Alka Knights
- by croatiaweek
- in News
Frano Ivković (31) has won the 300th Sinjska Alka Knights lancing tournament in Sinj on Sunday…
Ivković received honours from Croatia’s President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović after beating 17 other competitors in the 300th edition of the traditional event.
“I would like the spirit of chivalry and prowess which we will see during today’s race be transposed to Croatian politics,” Grabar- Kitarović told reporters on Sunday as the 3-day tournament came to a close.
Held since 1715, Sinjska alka is an equestrian competition commemorating the victory over the advancing Ottoman Turkish administration in the 18th century. The Alka Knights Games sees various horsemen attempt to aim their lances at a hanging metal ring, known as the Alka, at full gallop.
Croatia’s President
Only men born in Sinj and surrounding villages are eligible to take part in the event and with it comes considerable prestige. The costumes worn by the alkar men are the same that were worn by the warriors in the 18th century. Sinjska alka were inscribed in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List in 2010. (photo/uredpresjednice)
