Ždrelac on Pašman will host the 2029 World Underwater Hunting Championship, which will also be the third world championship held in independent Croatia. In June 2029, the world’s best male and female underwater hunters will gather there.
The first world championship in independent Croatia was held in Zadar in 1998, and the second in Mali Lošinj in 2010. Notably, the first world championship in this sport was also held in Mali Lošinj in 1957.
Preparations for the upcoming competition have already begun. At a meeting in the Zadar County House, discussions covered port development, the reception of competition vessels, maritime safety, medical support and funding. County President Josip Bilaver stated that hosting the world championship is a great honour for Pašman and Zadar County, and that the County will be a partner to the municipality and organisers in preparing a high-quality and safe competition.
Pašman Mayor Krešimir Ćosić emphasised that the championship represents an opportunity to promote the island, as well as to improve the port and public spaces that will benefit residents even after the competition. Competition Director Mihael Salopek warned that the organisation involves much more than the four days of the official programme. National teams will familiarise themselves with the competition area over 14 days, which requires timely organisation of accommodation, transport, vessels and safety services.
Preparations also include environmental protection, cleaning of the coastline and seabed, and waste separation. The organisers have signed a letter of intent with the company "Bura brodovi" for the production of at least 100 rigid-hulled inflatable boats for the championship. This opens up the possibility of linking the sporting event with domestic shipbuilding.
The championship is expected to bring additional demand for accommodation, hospitality services and other local facilities, alongside the international promotion of Pašman and Zadar County.
