Himzo Buzimkic, one of the best boatmen in Bosanska Krupa and beyond, has been building boats since the 80s. He built his first boat at the age of 18, and today they sail in London, Verona, Ljubljana…
He built his first boat as a boy in the 80s. Since then, he has built, as he says, hundreds of boats.
”I started building boats back in the 80s. Everyone tries to make a special boat. I made my first one when I was 18 years old. The River Una has waterfalls, whirlpools, but also calm water, and it is necessary to build a boat to withstand everything.”
”After the war, I saw the prospect and made hundreds of them. Now I mostly build tourist boats. There is one in Banja Luka. It is large and is used in a catering establishment, it is used for lunch, it can fit tables, chairs, several people. They are made in various sizes, from family to large ones,” says Buzimkic.
Two in Italy
His boats are located throughout the Balkans. EUFOR representatives who were in Bihac took one to London.
”The man took it to the Thames and now it is there. My boats are also in Croatia, Austria, Slovenia, North Macedonia, and two are in Italy, probably in Verona,” he adds.
Boats are made of materials that can withstand water and do not pollute the environment.
Himzo Buzimkic, one of the best boatmen in Bosanska Krupa and beyond, has been building boats since the 80s. I make 30 to 50 boats a year. Now, mostly guys who enroll in a school related to woodworking work with me, and they find it interesting to be here with me, and they are here, they help, and I pay them for it.
”Una boatmen” on August 6th
The recognizable Bosanska Krupa event “Una boatmen” (Unski ladjari), the 42nd in a row, is being held this year on August 6th (Saturday).
The tradition that brings together all generations of Bosanska Krupa citizens and which, even in the worst times, did not lose its enthusiasm and honor, after the pandemic period, will shine this year in full glory.
A lot of accompanying entertainment awaits all citizens and guests this year, and as usual, a rich prize fund is provided for all participants.
In addition to cups and medals, the best will receive cash prizes. Prizes in the amount of 1.200, 800, and 600 BAM are provided for the first three places in the Una boat race. A special prize will be awarded as part of the event.
As part of the event, the “First Una Swallow” (Prva lasta Une) jumps are traditionally organized. Applications for this part of the event also last until August 5th, and all interested parties can register with Emir Besic at the phone number 061/753-913.
All citizens, especially young people, are invited to participate in and support this traditional event that is recognizable for Bosanska Krupa, Avaz writes.
E.Dz.
