Top Croatian Surgeon Finds Peace and Success Breeding Sport Horses

Professor Stipislav Jadrijević, a prominent Croatian transplant surgeon and head of the transplant team at Merkur University Hospital, finds solace and renewed energy among horses, continuing a deep-rooted family tradition.

Jadrijević, a specialist in general and abdominal surgery, is recognized for pioneering transplant procedures in Croatia, including the first pancreas and kidney transplants in 2003, a small bowel transplant in 2008, and complex liver surgeries. His significant contributions have earned him numerous accolades, including the City of Zagreb Award in 2003 and recognition from the Ministry of Health in 2011.

Despite his demanding career, which involves making life-or-death decisions daily, Jadrijević finds his greatest peace at his stud farm near Ivanić-Grad. This passion for horses stems from his upbringing in Sinj, a city intrinsically linked to equestrianism and the traditional Sinjska alka tournament, where several of his ancestors were participants.

His equestrian pursuits have evolved into a serious breeding project, undertaken with his son, Filip Jadrijević, a successful show jumper and multiple national champion. Together, they have developed a stud farm recognized internationally, with their horses competing successfully in top European events, particularly in Germany, highlighting the quality of Croatian sport horse breeding.