Ultramarathoner running nearly 1,000 kilometers in memory of war victims

Almost 1,000 kilometers, from Prevlaka in the south to Vukovar in the east, is the distance ultramarathoner Jelena Barčot from Vela Luka is running in honor of the victims of the Homeland War, particularly the 86 children killed in Vukovar.

Every step carries a message of love, gratitude and remembrance for those who gave their lives for Croatia's freedom. Her demanding undertaking also has a humanitarian purpose: raising aid for those most in need in Vukovar.

Under the name The Road of Pride, Peace and Love, Barčot set out on a challenging journey linking Croatia's southernmost reaches with Vukovar, a symbol of suffering and resistance during the Homeland War.

Along the way, she also stopped in Sisak, where she lit a candle at the monument to fallen Croatian defenders and paid tribute to those who lost their lives defending their homeland.

Every kilometer keeps the memory alive

For Barčot, the ultramarathon is much more than a sporting challenge. It is a personal mission to honor the sacrifice of Croatian defenders and innocent civilians, especially the children whose lives were cut short.

She initially calculated that the route would cover 844 kilometers, but additional distances added along the way could bring the total to as much as 1,000 kilometers.

"I calculated that it would be 844 kilometers, but every day some additional kilometers are added. It will end up being 1,000," Jelena said.

A run with a humanitarian purpose

Her undertaking also has a strong humanitarian dimension. Alongside honoring the victims of the Homeland War, Barčot is collecting donations for the Duga Social Supermarket in Vukovar, which provides assistance to people in need.

In this way, The Road of Pride, Peace and Love connects remembrance of the past with solidarity and support for those facing hardship today.

Arrival in Vukovar on the eve of Remembrance Day

Barčot plans to reach Vukovar on the evening of November 17, on the eve of the Homeland War Victims' Remembrance Day and the Day of Remembrance for the Victims of Vukovar and Škabrnja.

Her family, friends and fellow participants in the caravan have been her greatest support throughout the demanding journey. She hopes to reach the finish line together with them.

"On November 17, I will arrive in Vukovar in the evening, hopefully with the caravan. Apart from my family and friends, they are my greatest support," the ultramarathoner said.

From Prevlaka to Vukovar, every kilometer of her journey carries a message: the sacrifice made for Croatia's freedom must never be forgotten, and the memory of the 86 children killed in Vukovar must live on for generations to come.