Seven-Year-Old Wins Children's Alka in Croatia; Minister Praises Tradition

The 71st Children's Alka, a traditional competition for young participants, was held in Vučkovići, Brnaze, near Sinj, Croatia, as part of the "Days of Alka and Great Assumption" festival. The event drew a large crowd of locals and guests, with support from the Minister of Demography and Emigration, Ivan Šipić.

Minister Šipić emphasized the importance of preserving tradition for demographic renewal and the survival of Croatian regions. He highlighted that such events demonstrate the strong future of the Cetina region. "We have enough Alka participants, we have enough children. There are Alka participants everywhere, and preserving these values is key to our identity," he stated, offering full support to the youngest participants learning knightly values.

This year's winner of the Children's Alka was seven-year-old Matej Vučković, known by his nickname Malta. In this competition, the young participants run the 'alka' course without horses. The Ministry noted that the Children's Alka in Vučkovići is one of the oldest and most significant children's competitions of its kind, proving that values like courage, honor, and community are successfully passed down through generations.

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We have enough Alka participants, we have enough children. There are Alka participants everywhere, and preserving these values is key to our identity.