Cowboys for the first time in 20 years The winners of the Cowboys meet

Bakra’s long-awaited victory at the 20th edition of the Bakar Games marked a historic moment after two decades of local dominance. The annual event, held on the final day of Margaret’s summer, brought together residents and visitors in a vibrant celebration of tradition and community spirit. For the first time since its inception, the home team from Bakar emerged victorious, ending the competition with a triumphant display of skill and teamwork. The games began early in the evening, with teams of retirees competing in a series of traditional contests designed to test both physical agility and strategic thinking. These included the challenging task of throwing bottles, tossing beanbags, playing croquet-style games, and the popular cornhole. Teams from Bakar, Hreljin, Krasica, Kukuljanovo, Praputnjak, Škrljev, and Zlobina took part, each demonstrating their dedication and competitive flair. The retiree teams showed remarkable enthusiasm, with the Praputnjak team securing top positions in bottle-throwing and beanbag toss. Kukuljanovo came second overall among the retirees, while Hreljin claimed third place. The competition shifted to a more intense format as younger athletes joined the fray, engaging in five high-energy disciplines: the playful "hug and kiss," balloon battles, wet pants challenges, hot seats, and the decisive tug-of-war. The home team from Bakar displayed exceptional coordination and strength, particularly excelling in the hot seat contest, which required couples to compete for seating space. Their performance culminated in the final tug-of-war, where they secured the win. Krasica placed second with 15 points, while Hreljin and Praputnjak tied for third with 13 points each. Beyond the formal competitions, the evening featured entertainment and fun activities that added to the festive atmosphere. The "Thirsty Challenge" drew laughter and cheers as participants competed to drink the most beer, with winners determined by who could finish a mug first. Children also had their moment of glory during a youth tug-of-war, where their energy and support from the crowd created a lively spectacle. The evening concluded with a grand concert at the fish market, transforming the venue into a stage for musical performances. Singer Petar Grašo captivated the audience with his hits, turning the event into a full-blown summer festival. His energetic set helped keep the mood upbeat throughout the night, drawing attendees from far and wide. One such visitor was the Taškovski family, who traveled from Vienna specifically to enjoy the concert, joining thousands of others in the packed venue. The celebrations continued well into the night, with the music of group Venus keeping the rhythm going. The success of the Bakar Games this year not only highlighted the enduring appeal of these traditional contests but also reinforced the sense of community and shared joy that defines them. As the event drew to a close, the town of Bakar remained buzzing with the echoes of laughter, music, and the spirit of friendly rivalry that has made these gatherings a cherished part of local life for over two decades.