Podgorica Hosts 67th Annual Street Race on December 18

The city of Podgorica will witness the 67th edition of the annual street race, “19. decembar-Trofej Podgorice-Memorijal Veliša Mugoša,” on December 18, 2023. This long-standing tradition, which spans seven decades, celebrates the liberation of Podgorica and brings together athletes from various categories.

The race will commence on Gorica Hill, located across from the Partisan Fighter monument. The course measures approximately 600 meters, designed for a series of races that cater to participants of all ages and skill levels. The ceremonial opening is scheduled for 12:00, followed by the first event featuring young female athletes from elementary schools at 12:10.

Participants will compete in a series of events throughout the afternoon. The schedule includes a 600-meter race for young male athletes starting at 12:15, followed by a 1,000-meter race for junior girls at 12:20 and a 1,500-meter race for junior boys at 12:30. At 12:40, seniors, recreational runners, students, military personnel, police, and veterans will take to the track, culminating in the Veliša Mugoša Memorial race at 13:10, which spans 5,000 meters.

The Athletic Union of Montenegro has announced that cash prizes will be awarded to registered Montenegrin competitors in the senior male and female races. All participants will receive commemorative medals for their involvement. In the veterans’ 3,000-meter race, trophies will be awarded for the top three finishers in three age categories: 40-50, 50-60, and over 60 years.

Organizers have confirmed that each athlete can compete in only one event. Registration and distribution of race numbers will take place on-site from 10:00 to 11:30 on the day of the event. Start numbers are mandatory for all categories, with elementary and secondary school students receiving their race cards from teachers. Notably, the top 20 finishers will contribute to the recognition of the most successful schools, which will receive trophies and diplomas for their achievements.

The event aims to foster community spirit and promote athletics within Montenegro. The schedule for the day is as follows:

Event Schedule (Thursday, December 18):
– 12:00 – Official opening of the race
– 12:10 – 600 meters for young female athletes (elementary schools)
– 12:15 – 600 meters for young male athletes (elementary schools)
– 12:20 – 1,000 meters for junior female athletes (secondary schools)
– 12:30 – 1,500 meters for junior male athletes (secondary schools)
– 12:40 – 3,000 meters for senior female athletes, recreational runners, students, military, police, and veterans
– 13:10 – 5,000 meters for senior male athletes (Veliša Mugoša Memorial)

The 67th street race in Podgorica promises to be a vibrant celebration of athleticism and community, reflecting the enduring spirit of this cherished tradition.