This week, Čapljina is hosting the young Bosnia and Herzegovina cycling team, currently undergoing intensive preparations as part of a training camp. Continuing a successful project of gathering children and young athletes, which has been held in Mostar over the past three years, this year’s camp is taking place at a new location for the first time, aimed at promoting sport and tourism across various parts of the country.

The camp is organized through the UCI Solidarity project with the support of the Olympic Committee of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the International Cycling Federation (UCI). This year, the participation has reached a record high, with an increase of 40% compared to previous years, confirming the growing popularity of this initiative.

The Cycling Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina has secured accommodation for all camp participants, ensuring optimal conditions for training and development. The mild climate of southern Bosnia and Herzegovina during this time of year provides ideal conditions for cycling preparations, which is one of the reasons the location is shifting towards the southern parts of the country.

"Training camps are crucial for the development of young cyclists, as they provide opportunities to train, socialize, and learn from each other. Every year, we try to introduce new elements, and this time it’s Čapljina. Our plan is to change the location annually to promote Bosnia and Herzegovina as a sports and tourist destination. Our long-term goal is to expand the project internationally, bringing together young cyclists from different countries, encouraging the exchange of experiences, and advancing cycling as a sport," said Toni Zorić, President of the Bosnia and Herzegovina Cycling Federation.

The training camp also includes a course for race officials and commissaries, aimed at creating new governing bodies and updating knowledge among existing officials. The course participants will be introduced to the new regulations for 2025 to ensure they are fully prepared for the upcoming season. Educating referees and officials is a vital part of developing cycling as a sport, and this course guarantees ongoing professionalization and alignment with international standards.

To further improve and promote the project in Čapljina, the Bosnia and Herzegovina Cycling Federation has requested a formal meeting with the mayor of Čapljina to present the project and its long-term goals. However, they have not yet received a response. So far, support from local institutions has always been present, especially notable is the backing from the City of Mostar and the Sports Association of Mostar, which have helped implement this project in recent years.

This camp represents an important step in the development of young athletes, and the Bosnia and Herzegovina Cycling Federation continues its mission to encourage sporting spirit, teamwork, and cycling as an essential part of an active lifestyle.