The last weekend of August on the island of Cres has traditionally grown into a true celebration of sports and life, all in honor of one of the greatest sports legends of Kvarner. On Friday, August 29, and Saturday, August 30, 2025, the town of Cres and its picturesque surroundings will become the epicenter of water sports, emotions, and memories during the Florio Burburan Memorial. This event, dedicated to the prematurely deceased marathon swimmer whose roots run deep in the soil of Cres, in the village of Dragozetići, year after year transcends the boundaries of an ordinary sports competition, turning into a powerful tribute to the sporting spirit, perseverance, and love for the sea.

In memory of the "Kvarner Dolphin"

To fully understand the importance of this memorial, we must go back in time and get to know the man to whom it is dedicated. Florio Burburan, born in Rijeka on June 16, 1952, was much more than an athlete. Born with cerebral palsy, he did not see this life obstacle as a flaw, but as a challenge that required superhuman effort to achieve victory. His incredible willpower and positive spirit earned him the nickname "Kvarner Dolphin". Florio was a true pioneer and visionary; he is considered one of the founders of Croatian swimming for people with disabilities. Through his actions, he pushed boundaries and changed the public's perception of athletes with disabilities, proving that limits are most often only in our minds. His career was filled with more than 50 completed marathons, and he was also a multiple world champion in long-distance swimming in his category. Florio Burburan was, as many said, a beacon for all those who faced obstacles, and his legacy lives on today through this memorial that inspires new generations.

An attractive introduction to the sports weekend on the Cres waterfront

The grand opening of the two-day spectacle is scheduled for Friday, August 29, when the Cres waterfront, specifically the area in front of the Santa Lucia restaurant, will be transformed into a unique open-air sports arena. The program begins with a real water polo treat – an exhibition match between the water polo clubs "Mali Lošinj" and "Primorje" from Rijeka. This friendly clash of two renowned clubs will give the audience the opportunity to enjoy the skills of water polo players in an unforgettable atmosphere, right by the sea, under the floodlights. The unique experience will be further enriched by the members of the synchronized swimming club Primorje Aqua Maris. These talented athletes will perform their attractive and demanding choreographies during the match breaks, combining art and sport on a water stage.

After the professionals show their skills, it's time for all those eager for fun and recreation. The evening continues with a popular water polo tournament for amateurs, played in a dynamic "3 on 3" format on one goal. This tournament is designed as an opportunity for socializing and sports competition in a relaxed atmosphere. The friendly competitive energy, laughter, and cheering from the waterfront guarantee great fun for all participants and spectators. The organizers have also provided appropriate prizes for the best teams, and all those interested in participating can register in person at the Santa Lucia restaurant or by calling the phone number 099/520 0227.

Saturday dedicated to swimming challenges for all generations

Saturday, August 30, is entirely dedicated to swimming and the promotion of an active lifestyle, with a program that includes all ages and fitness levels. The day begins at 10:00 AM with a children's 50-meter swimming race. This cheerful competition is an ideal opportunity for the youngest to feel the excitement of a sports competition, show what they have learned, and earn their first round of applause from the finish line. Immediately after the little champions, at 10:30 AM, a 1000-meter swimming marathon is scheduled. This race has a special significance as it is intended for amateurs, but also for people with disabilities, thus directly continuing Florio Burburan's mission of inclusivity and promoting sport as a right for all. It is a race of community, courage, and pushing personal limits.

The highlight of the Memorial: The marathon from Valun to Cres

The central and most anticipated event of the entire manifestation, the 6th swimming marathon "Valun – Cres Memorial Florio Burburan", will begin at 4:30 PM. The start of this prestigious race is located in the idyllic bay of the picturesque town of Valun, known for its beauty and historical significance. The swimmers will face a challenging 8,000-meter course, a route that Florio himself often swam to promote swimming. Competitors will battle sea currents and their own endurance, swimming through the beautiful Cres archipelago. The finish line is on the waterfront in the town of Cres, where a large audience will be waiting for them, creating a magnificent atmosphere for the end of this sporting endeavor. This marathon is not just a test of physical fitness, but also an emotional journey in honor of the man whose name it proudly bears.

Swimming heroine Dina Levačić will grace the event

This year's edition of the Memorial will also have the special honor of hosting a true icon of long-distance swimming – Dina Levačić. Her participation gives the event an additional dimension of prestige and inspiration. Dina Levačić made history in world sports as the first person from Croatia and the youngest woman in the world to successfully conquer the "Ocean's Seven," the seven toughest and most dangerous swimming marathons in the world, earning her a place in the Guinness Book of Records. In addition, she is the second woman in history to have swum the "Triple Crown" of long-distance swimming within just 90 days. Her achievements testify to her incredible physical fitness, as well as her steely mental strength. However, Dina is not only adorned with sporting results; she is known for her modesty, dedication, and big heart. Her arrival in Cres represents a huge recognition for the Memorial and will be an incredible incentive for all participants, from the youngest to the most experienced.

Community as the foundation of success

Organizing such a complex and content-rich event would not be possible without the enthusiasm and dedicated work of individuals and institutions. The main organizer is the Long-Distance Swimming Club Primorje, with the key role of local marathon swimmer and enthusiast Danijel Brnić and, of course, the members of the Burburan family who actively participate each year in preserving the memory of their Florio. An important part of the story is the work with young people. As part of the preparations for the Memorial, a preparatory children's competition for students from 1st to 8th grade was held in mid-June at Camp Kovačine, with about sixty children participating. The aim of this competition was to encourage the youngest to take up swimming and prepare them for participation in the main races on August 30. The entire event is held under the high patronage of the Tourist Board of the City of Cres, the Primorje-Gorski Kotar County, and the City of Cres, with great support from numerous sponsors who have recognized the value and importance of this sporting event.