Approaching the weekend, more precisely this Saturday, June 7, 2025, enthusiasts of adrenaline sports and untouched nature are turning their gaze towards the slopes of Velebit. In synergy between the Velebit Athletic Club and the Velebit Nature Park, in the area of picturesque Karlobag and the mountain jewel Baške Oštarije, another edition of the now renowned sporting event – SKY BOŠT 2025 – will take place. This event is not just a race; it is a celebration of human endurance, the magnificence of nature, and the sporting passion that connects the Adriatic Sea with mountain peaks.

The central event, rightfully bearing the epithet of the most attractive, is the 30-kilometer long skyrunning race. The start of this mountain adventure is scheduled for 09:00 AM in coastal Karlobag, from where the bravest runners will set off on a course with a total vertical ascent of an impressive 2,300 meters. The Velebit karst, known for its ruggedness and technical difficulty, represents a true test of physical and mental strength. However, the significance of this race far exceeds merely overcoming the terrain. It is the final qualifying stop for the World Skyrunning Championship, a discipline that demands exceptional running and movement skills from competitors in high mountains, often including steep inclines and technically challenging sections. Simultaneously, this race also serves as a selection competition for forming the Croatian junior national skyrunning team, providing young talents with the opportunity to prove themselves at the highest level and secure their place among the national elite.

The elite of world trail running on Velebit's paths

The fact that Velebit's terrain year after year attracts some of the biggest names in world and domestic trail and skyrunning speaks for itself. The list of registered competitors for SKY BOŠT 2025 promises a top-tier sporting spectacle and an uncertain battle for the podium. In the men's competition, the arrival of Pavle Kruljac, a runner who achieved notable success by winning a silver medal at the prestigious Istria 100 by UTMB race, part of the world-renowned UTMB series that brings together the best trail runners in the world, draws attention. Alongside him is Danijel Krstulović Opara, the current Croatian trail champion, whose form and knowledge of domestic terrains always pose a serious threat to the competition. The Croatian short trail team champion, Erik Stipić, will also be seeking his chance for a high placement, while the legend of Croatian trail running, Ante Pešić Golub, will surely inspire many with his experience and tireless spirit. The list of favorites continues with Marin Mandekić, the Croatian record holder in the extremely demanding race around Mont Blanc and former Croatian trail champion, and skyrunning national team member Mateo Ledinski, a specialist for such course profiles. We must not forget Luka Nedeljković, one of the best Croatian runners when it comes to steep ascents, so-called "uphill" specialists, whose ability to quickly overcome elevation differences will be crucial on the Velebit slopes.

The women's competition in the sky discipline is no less impressive. Ivana Širić, the first Croatian woman to win one of the globally popular UTMB series races and the current Croatian short trail champion, leads the list of favorites. Her success on the international scene further raises expectations. Alongside her is Lana Ostojić, the current Croatian long trail champion, whose endurance and strength come to the fore on the toughest sections. Paula Vrdoljak, one of the best Croatian ultramarathon runners and holder of the national record for the 24-hour run, will prove her incredible mental and physical readiness. Her ability to push the limits of endurance fascinates the sporting public. The list is rounded off by Maja Urban, known as the "iron lady" of Croatian sport and current record holder in the Ironman triathlon, a discipline that requires top-level preparedness in three different sports. Her versatility and fighting spirit will be a huge asset on the demanding Velebit course.

Velebit accessible to everyone – races for recreational athletes and families

The organizers of SKY BOŠT 2025 have also thought of those who are just getting acquainted with the charms of trail running or simply want to spend an active day in nature with their family. Therefore, in addition to the main skyrunning race, starting at 11:00 AM in idyllic Baške Oštarije, two shorter but equally attractive races will be held. Baške Oštarije, with its mountain atmosphere, provides the perfect stage for these sporting challenges. The first of them, named BOŠT 4 You, is 11 kilometers long and falls into the category of moderately demanding trail races. It is ideal for runners who already have some experience in running on uneven terrain and want to explore the beauties of central Velebit, enjoying a combination of forest paths, mountain meadows, and moderate ascents and descents. This race offers a true Velebit experience without the extreme efforts required by the skyrunning discipline.

The second race, BOŠT Family Time, is 7 kilometers long and is designed as a recreational gathering suitable for families with children, beginners in running, and all those who want to enjoy nature at a slower pace. A special feature of this race is that pets are welcome, which emphasizes the relaxed and friendly atmosphere. BOŠT Family Time is not just a race, but an opportunity to create beautiful memories, encourage healthy habits in the youngest, and jointly enjoy the benefits of being in fresh air. Many visitors decide to stay in Baške Oštarije to fully experience this mountain paradise.

More than a race – promotion of Velebit and a healthy lifestyle

It is expected that more than 250 runners will participate in all three races, which is a clear indicator of the growing popularity of trail running and the recognition of the SKY BOŠT event itself. These enthusiasts, through their participation, not only promote sport and a healthy lifestyle but also become ambassadors of the extraordinary beauty of the trails that wind through Velebit, masterfully connecting its Adriatic and continental parts. Runners will have the opportunity to experience the unique transition from the Mediterranean climate and vegetation near Karlobag, which offers diverse opportunities for vacation, towards the harsher, but equally enchanting mountain ambiance of Baške Oštarije. The Velebit Nature Park, as a co-organizer, plays a key role in preserving this precious ecosystem, ensuring that sporting activities are conducted in accordance with nature protection principles. Velebit, as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, is home to numerous endemic species of plants and animals, and its geological formations are breathtaking. The views from Velebit's peaks and ridges, on one side towards the blue Adriatic Sea and islands, and on the other towards the expanses of Lika, are an unforgettable experience for every visitor.

SKY BOŠT 2025 is not just a sporting event; it is a driver of local development and tourism promotion. Events of this caliber attract visitors, fill accommodation capacities in Karlobag and its surroundings and in the area of Baške Oštarije, and put this unique region on the map of desirable destinations for active holidays. The Velebit Athletic Club, as the main organizer, invests enormous efforts in preparing the courses and overall logistics, relying on the help of numerous volunteers without whose enthusiasm and dedication such an event would not be possible. Their contribution is immeasurable and testifies to the strength of community and love for sport and nature. The atmosphere along the courses, as well as at the start and finish, is expected to be filled with positive energy, cheering, and a sense of community that characterizes the trail running community. While competitors battle the challenges of the course, the support of the audience and the beauty of the surroundings will be an additional incentive for them to give their best and push their own limits.