Running Team Tešanj in a very short period of time has grown into a recognizable sports association that promotes running, a healthy life and togetherness.
We talked about the achieved results, the first Tešanj 5K race and plans for next year with the representatives of this young but extremely active citizens’ association.
How would you describe the year behind you? What did Running Team Tešanj manage to achieve in such a short period of existence?
The year behind us was extremely meaningful and, above all, filled with volunteer work and shared enthusiasm. Running Team Tešanj managed to gather a large number of recreational athletes and runners in a very short period of time, create a recognizable sports story and initiate positive changes in the city. The crown of that work was the organization of the first Tešanj 5K race, as well as obtaining the World Athletics certificate for the track, which is an extremely significant recognition. Track certification means that the race route has been precisely measured and verified according to World Athletics international standards, which guarantees accurate mileage and equal conditions for all participants. With this certificate, Tešanj 5K is officially included among the internationally recognized road races, which enables the achieved results to be valid and comparable at the world level. For a city like Tešnj, but also for a young, amateur association, this is a big step forward and a strong confirmation of the seriousness and quality of the organization. You organized the first 5K race through Tešanj.
You organized the first 5K race through Tešanj. What are the reactions of the participants and as we see are the applications for next year already current?
The reactions of the participants were extremely positive, which is the biggest confirmation that we have done a good job. The race was experienced as a nice sporting and social event, and Tešanj proved to be a city that has the potential to host a serious road race. We are especially proud of the citizens of Tešnj, who took to the streets in large numbers, cheered on the runners and gave immense support, thus creating an atmosphere that left a strong impression on all participants. Early registrations for next year further confirm that this story is recognized and has a future.
Your members participate in races all over the world. What does the preparation process look like and what kind of support does the team provide?
The members of Running Team Tešanj come from different running experiences, some have been running for years and have rich experience, while some have only recently taken their first steps in the world of running. It is precisely through joint trips to races, both in Bosnia and Herzegovina and abroad, that many are encouraged to try competitive running for the first time. Support is reflected through mutual motivation, togetherness, encouragement and exchange of experiences, which creates a sense of belonging and additionally motivates members to push their own boundaries. Although you are an amateur association, it is evident that you are growing quickly.
Although you are an amateur association, it is evident that you are growing quickly. What do you consider the greatest strength of Running Team Tešanj?
The only goal of Running Team Tešanj is the promotion of running, a healthy lifestyle and the city of Tešanj. The association has no personal interests or highlighting individuals, all activities are directed towards a common goal. Through sports, social and humanitarian activities, we want to revive the city, at least for a few days a year, and send a positive image of Tešnja. It is this sincere idea, based solely on volunteer work and togetherness, that represents our greatest strength.
How important is it to have such an association in a local community like Tešnja?
Such an association has enormous importance for the local community. It offers not only sports activity, but also motivation for citizens to get moving and introduce healthy habits into everyday life. The support of citizens in all this is crucial, without it no initiative would have any sense or continuity.
This year you also organized the ‘Walk for Life’. How did the action go?
The ‘Walk for Life’ was one of the most emotional activities we realized. The goal of the action was humanitarian and social, to gather citizens, raise awareness and help those who need it the most. Despite the bad weather and rain, a large number of citizens responded to the action, which is a strong confirmation of solidarity and togetherness in our city. Through this action, 11,335.80 KM was collected, and the entire amount was paid to the humanitarian association Pomozi.ba. This walk showed that sport can be a powerful tool of solidarity and togetherness, but also that Tešanj has a big heart.
Do you notice an increase in interest in running and recreation in Tešanj?
Definitely. After the race and other activities, we notice an increasing number of runners on the streets of Tešnja. Today, it is almost impossible to pass through the city without meeting at least one runner, which was unthinkable just a year ago. We consider this to be one of the greatest successes of our work.
What are the plans for 2026?
Plans for 2026 include further development of the Tešanj 5K race, strengthening the quality of the organization and continuation of socially beneficial and humanitarian activities. The goal is not to expand at any cost, but to preserve the values that have made Running Team Tešanj recognizable. We can already announce that the next edition of Tešanj 5K is planned for April 11, 2026, while early registrations are open until December 31, which shows continuity and a serious approach to event planning.
How demanding is it to run an amateur sports association?
Running an amateur association requires a lot of time, dedication and volunteer work. The biggest challenges are organization, financial sustainability and logistics, but strong support from citizens and the community gives us the motivation to continue.
Finally, your message to the citizens of Tešnj?
Our message is simple: take the first step. It doesn’t have to be a race, just walking, moving and deciding to lead a healthier life is enough. The city lives as long as its citizens are active, and we will continue to work to make Tešanj a city of sports, health and community.
