Swimming marathon Ist

Squeezed between the isle of Škarda and the greater Molat, Ist is the island where sea currents formed ridges and underwater caves, with the coastline dotted into a numerous bays and cuts, making this area extremely rich in fish and marine life. Ist is a favorite destination for sport fishermen and divers, as well as swimmers who come here every summer in the first half of August to measure the power of swim skills. There is a swimming marathon Oko Benušića every on Ist August for more than a decade. The main race is scored for the Croatian Cup in men's and women's competitions, and a race outside the competition, with over a hundred swimmers in both races. When compared to 150 permanent residents of Ist Island, the number is huge. Why do swimmers like Ist? Because the swimming marathon on Ist is far more than the race. Th race is 4200 meters long. The islet Benušić is a place where you can look at stunning beauty the Velebit mountain in the distance, and the results of the race largely depend on the mercy of our greatest mountain. The wind bura that blows from Velebit can make the race difficult and cause the weaker results, but the swimmers will say, "in a tough race - the pride when you reach finish is bigger." The race is accompanied by a true festivity and banquet, with the specialities of white delicious flesh of a conger that loves the underwater island of Ist and does not like the fishermen of the island who hunt them skillfully. Ist is a small hospitable place, and accommodation on Ist can be found in private houses and apartments. Apart from the swimming marathon, there are frequent events organized by locals, which without a great notice turn into a small celebration of the beauty of life on the m magical island of Ist.