The Boris Hanžeković Memorial, Croatia’s oldest and most prestigious athletics event, has been awarded the World Athletics Heritage Plaque under the ‘Competition’ category, marking a major milestone as it celebrates its 75th edition in Zagreb.
Named in honor of Boris Hanžeković, a pre-WWII Croatian hurdling star who tragically lost his life attempting to escape the Jasenovac concentration camp, the annual meet has grown into a globally recognized event. What began in 1951 now stands as a World Athletics Continental Tour Gold meeting. It attracts elite international competitors and celebrating the legacy of one of Croatia’s most revered sportsmen.
The Heritage Plaque, officially presented at this year’s meet by European Athletics Vice-President Cherry Alexander. It acknowledges the event’s exceptional contribution to the development of global athletics. This is across both track and field disciplines and road-based events like marathon and race walking.
Message from Sebastian Coe
World Athletics President Sebastian Coe lauded the recognition, highlighting the event’s global prestige and its remarkable legacy.
“World Athletics is delighted to salute the illustrious history of the Boris Hanžeković Memorial. The oldest sporting event in Croatia,” said Coe. “Legends such as Valeriy Brumel, Usain Bolt, Sandra Perković, and Blanka Vlašić have all graced the track in Zagreb. A true testament to the meeting’s international stature.”
Coe also recalled that Cuban great Alberto Juantorena ,whose 800m world record he famously broke made his breakthrough at the Memorial in 1973. This further illustrates the platform the event has provided for rising stars.
Memorial Director Natko Bošnjak emphasized the collective effort behind the event’s success. “This plaque is not just a recognition of our meeting, but a tribute to every athlete, volunteer, fan, and partner who has contributed over the decades. It symbolizes tradition, perseverance, and excellence qualities embedded in the spirit of Zagreb.”
He also paid tribute to the Hanžeković family, the City of Zagreb, and the Croatian government for their unwavering support. “Our mission remains to preserve Boris Hanžeković’s memory while offering athletes a stage worthy of their dedication,” Bošnjak added.
As the Memorial celebrates its diamond jubilee, the new honor reaffirms its place not just in Croatian history, but on the global athletics map.