Second International Horse Races Held at Butmir Hippodrome

(Patria) - The second edition of the International Horse Races, held today at the Butmir hippodrome, is the best confirmation that horse racing has returned with full force to areas where it has a tradition of over 130 years.

Under the auspices of the Municipality of Ilidža and with the help of the Tourist Board of Sarajevo Canton, and organized by the Butmirski galop Horse Club, more than two thousand visitors today enjoyed four races, as well as a rich cultural and entertainment program.



The Ilidža carriage drivers added a special charm to the all-day program, which began at 3:30 PM, showcasing their beloved horses to the public at the Butmir hippodrome in the best possible light, horses that all visitors to Ilidža can see in Velika aleja. The performances of KUD Biseri Bjelašnice and Ferid Avdić further enhanced the event.

- After a long break in holding traditional horse races in Butmir, we revived that tradition in 2023 and brought it back to the Butmir hippodrome. This year, we can say that we have taken another step forward compared to last year.

The entire organization has been raised to a higher level, and the program was complemented by a parade of our carriage drivers, which is another tradition deeply rooted in the history of the Ilidža area - said the Mayor of Ilidža Municipality, Nermin Muzur, adding further praise for the organizers.



In the first race of the day, named "Imperia-Araberi", the horse Sinah Samara, ridden by jockey Aleksandar Šašić, emerged victorious. Marshal came in second, while the third place went to the horse Zimzelen.

The KK Butmirski galop race was won by the horse Bolzano, followed by Akropolis Boy and Dolyani.

This race was by far the most uncertain and interesting, with centimeters deciding the winner, which somewhat disappointed the organizer whose horse finished in second place after reviewing two replays.

Nevertheless, the host and organizer has no reason for dissatisfaction or sorrow. After horse races returned to Butmir and Ilidža last summer, after a 12-year break, the organization of the races this year has certainly been elevated by one level, and as the organizers stated, they will strive to make it better year after year.



This year, unlike last year, the third race of the day was named after the late Dženan Memić. Paris Texas, owned by Štale Begzadić, triumphed in this race. The horse Abbey's Wedding took second place, while Kisley Galaste crossed the finish line in third.

The award was presented to the winner by Muriz Memić, the father of the late Dženan.

The last race of the Second International Horse Races program, named the Ilidža Municipality Race with a prize fund of 16,000 KM, was also spectacular.