Not even temperatures of 30°C could prevent FIT4NOVI from transforming Novi Vinodolski into a true sports stage during the final week of May. Over five days filled with tournaments, recreational activities, educational workshops and entertainment, a large number of participants of all ages gathered, once again confirming Novi Vinodolski as an ideal destination for an active and healthy lifestyle.

The event began on Tuesday, 26 May, with a children’s football tournament organised by NK Vinodol, while Thursday’s programme continued with the Fijolica Kindergarten workshop “For a Sporting Beat, Be Wonderfully Fit”. The workshop also welcomed the Selce majorettes and the Sports Association of Primorje-Gorski Kotar County. On the same day, the harbour hosted an attractive sailing presentation organised by JK Burin.

Friday was dedicated to handball. A mini handball tournament for girls born in 2017 was held, with RK Vinodol taking first place, followed by RK Crikvenica and RK Omišalj in second and third place. The day was further enriched by an exhibition match between the veteran women’s teams of Murvica and Vinodol, won by Murvica. A special highlight was the visit of Katarina Ježić, a native of Novi Vinodolski and Croatian national team player who has competed in four European Championships. At the same time, Ivan Mažuranić Square was transformed into an open-air recreation zone featuring Zumba, Pilates and Yoga Vinyasa Flow sessions led by Synergy Fit Sports Recreation.

Saturday marked the sporting peak of the event. Novi Trail attracted numerous runners from Croatia and neighbouring countries, while the chess tournament welcomed as many as 71 competitors. In the senior category, Goran Tomljanović (ŠK Velebit) claimed first place, followed by Erik Haidinger (ŠK Crikvenica) in second and Siniša Dimitrijević in third. Among the cadets, Lovro Medanić (AŠK Junior) took first place, Alan Katušić (ŠK Crikvenica) finished second, and Oskar Fajdetić (AŠK Junior) came third. In the girls’ cadet category, Rita Matijević (ŠK Zrinski Frankopan) won first place, followed by Alessia Stefan (ŠK Rijeka) and Bojana Majnarić (ŠK Delnice).

The day concluded in a relaxed atmosphere with a concert by Zsa Zsa. Visitors also enjoyed the gastronomic programme “The Power of a Bite”, during which restaurants in Novi Vinodolski offered special sports-inspired menus based on healthy nutrition. Participating venues included Admiral, Đir, Mirakul, Pizzeria Nava and Konoba Hata. The programme continued on Sunday with nutritionist Martina Linarić, who prepared healthy smoothies and shared practical advice on balanced nutrition with visitors.

Sunday marked the grand finale of FIT4NOVI, offering a diverse programme of sports and recreational activities. The day began with a doubles table tennis tournament that brought together 40 competitors. Milan Dmitrović and Dominik Salma claimed victory, while Zoran Škoro and Denis Vidović finished in second place. Third place was shared by the pairs Darko Šukunda and Robert Semion, and Neno Šostarić and Vanja Pejić. During the morning programme, Donna-Louise Ugrinović presented recreational activities designed for senior citizens, while younger participants enjoyed a sports play area. The event also welcomed Ida Mikulić, former Survivor contestant, who led a bodyweight workout session for all interested participants. The morning was further enriched by a cycling tour through the hinterland of Novi Vinodolski, organised by BK Vinodol. Starting from Korzo hrvatskih branitelja, the route led all the way to Luka Krmpotska. Designed to suit even the slowest riders, the tour rewarded participants with stunning panoramic views along the way.

The Sunday programme concluded with the “City Districts” five-a-side football tournament. The team Prisika took first place after defeating Putnici in the final, while Krasa secured third place. Antonio Buljat was named the tournament’s top scorer, Emanuel Petrinić the best goalkeeper, and Marko Čorak the best player.

This year, the Novi Korak Association once again joined the event, selling promotional caps and T-shirts at its stand. All proceeds will be dedicated to supporting children with developmental disabilities.

FIT4NOVI once again proved to be a successful project that brings together sport, education and entertainment. Throughout May, visitors enjoyed a wide range of activities, from Nordic walking tours and hiking excursions to workshops and a spectacular finale filled with tournaments, presentations and recreational programmes.

Although FIT4NOVI has officially come to an end, Novi Vinodolski continues with a rich calendar of events. The next highlight is the Sparkling Breakfast, a unique gourmet experience taking place on Saturday, 6 June, in the vineyards of Pavlomir Wine House. In the relaxed atmosphere of the vineyards, registered visitors will enjoy a carefully curated breakfast accompanied by premium Kvarner sparkling wines, a rich selection of local savoury and sweet delicacies, and the sounds of live jazz music, creating an unforgettable experience. The programme runs until 2 p.m., and participation is possible exclusively with a pre-purchased ticket priced at €40.