This year, Vrana hosted the 7th round of the Dalmatian XC Winter League, with the spotlight on a new trail – XCO Mali Bak. The organiser, the Pakoštane Mountain Biking Club, once again demonstrated how dedication, effort and a love for cycling can transform terrain into a true sporting experience. With more than 120 competitors of all age groups, the race was not only a sporting challenge but also a strong reminder of how much passion, determination and teamwork stand behind every successfully realised idea.
The XCO Mali Bak trail is the result of a month and a half of dedicated work by club members, who spent every weekend building and preparing it. With technically demanding sections and inspiration drawn from the Enduro stage race Mali Bak, it became a challenge for experienced cyclists as well as a strong motivation for those just entering the world of mountain biking. The route combines physical endurance and technical precision, with climbs, turns and natural obstacles guiding riders through the authentic landscape of Vrana and its surroundings, leaving a strong impression on both participants and spectators. Seventy competitors took part in the main race, while the children’s cycling programme brought together as many as 51 young enthusiasts. A particularly emotional moment was the participation of the youngest members of the local MTB school, who experienced the atmosphere of competition and team spirit on their home terrain for the first time. For many, it was their first encounter with a real trail, an audience and the kind of sporting excitement that stays in memory and encourages further training. The race delivered notable sporting results, but more importantly, it created a sense of belonging and shared achievement. Every hour invested in preparing the trail, every cheer along the route and every finish-line moment contributed to an atmosphere that went beyond a sporting event. Once again, the event showed how sport can bring people together, encourage active time in nature and highlight the destination’s potential as a place for recreation, competition and outdoor experiences.
On the home trail, young competitors stood out in particular, showing how much it means to train with dedication and belief in one’s own abilities. The results confirmed the continuous growth and development of the cycling scene, as well as the importance of the community support behind every sporting success. Their names may not be widely known, but the effort, energy and motivation of each participant are part of a story that grows from race to race and goes beyond results alone.
“This was not just a race – it was proof that the community breathes together with us.” Every trail, every turn and every moment of the race was the result of the dedication of people who love what they do. From volunteers and parents to supporters along the route, everyone gave a part of themselves to make this event remembered as something more than just sport.
XCO Mali Bak was not only a test of physical endurance, but also a reflection of what happens when effort, vision and community come together in one place. Every competitor, every volunteer and every supporter along the trail was part of a story that does not end at the finish line. The true strength of cycling is not measured only in times or medals, but in the feeling that together we have created an experience worth remembering and returning to. If you are a cycling enthusiast, don’t miss this exciting race next year.
